An iconic historical monument
The construction of the Torres de Quart began in 1441 and was completed in 1460. These towers were part of Valencia's medieval defensive walls, which were built to protect the city from potential threats, including attacks from rival kingdoms and pirates. During this period, Valencia was an important Mediterranean port and a prominent city in the Kingdom of Aragon.
The towers were strategically positioned on the western side of the city (on the royal road towards Madrid), facing the area known as the “Quart” district. They were one of the main entrances into Valencia, controlling access to and from the city.
In the 19th century, the city walls were torn down, but the Quart Towers were spared from demolition thanks to public protests.
Interesting facts
THE BUILDING
- They were built between 1441 and 1460, making them one of the oldest surviving examples of late Gothic military architecture in Spain.
- They were designed by Pere Bonfill, who was inspired by the Castel Nuovo towers in Naples.
- They were originally called the Torres de la Cal (Limestone Towers) because all limestone entering the city had to pass through them.
- They were used as a women's prison for a time during the 18th century.
- They played a key role in the defense of Valencia during the War of Independence against France in 1808.
- The towers are 33 meters (108 feet) tall, and the walls are up to 2 meters (6,6 feet) thick.
- The towers were built using a technique called “opus spicatum,” which is a type of herringbone masonry.
