The Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, named after Queen Sofia of Spain, sits in the city of Arts and Sciences – an ultra-modern stretch of pools, walkways and crisp-white buildings in Valencia. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and opened in 2005, it’s Valencia’s main performing arts centre. The building is absolutely huge, standing over 70 metres high and covering more than 40,000 square metres with its flowing curves, striking overhangs and Calatrava’s signature blend of glossy white finishes and sculptural design.
Inside, you’ll find lots of performance spaces – opera halls, concert venues and theatres – all kitted out with state-of-the-art tech and used for everything from opera and symphonic concerts to ballet and theatre. During a visit here, you can catch a show or join a guided tour that takes you into rehearsal rooms and backstage areas you’d never normally see. Even if you’re not there for a performance, it’s fun for a wander, poking around the little souvenir shops and grabbing a coffee while you soak up the setting.
