The Protection of the Historic City: The Case of the Surroundings of the Lonja de la Seda in Valencia (Spain), UNESCO World Heritage

Historic cities often retain their core functions over centuries, even as buildings evolve. In Valencia, Spain, the commercial heart has long revolved around the Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. However, its surrounding structures and urban spaces, despite their historical significance and close ties to the protected building, remain unprotected. This study combines material analysis of buildings with archival research to redefine the tangible and intangible values of this cultural heritage complex. By examining both physical fabric and documentary evidence, the research highlights how a broader understanding of historic cities can inform comprehensive preservation efforts, ensuring that residential areas and notable structures are not just seen as individual landmarks but as integral parts of urban development processes.

Mileto, C., & Vegas López-Manzanares, F. (2023). The Protection of the Historic City: The Case of the Surroundings of the Lonja de la Seda in Valencia (Spain), UNESCO World Heritage. Architecture, 3(4), 596–626. https://doi.org/10.3390/architecture3040033