Valencia: A City Rich in Historical and Cultural Heritage

Valencia, a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, has successfully reinvented itself over the years. One of the most significant examples of this reinvention is the old Turia riverbed, which has been transformed into an extensive garden that stretches across the city from east to west. This garden is not only a green space for recreation but also serves as a cultural corridor that connects various points of interest and cultural centers. The idea of a cultural mapping of the old Turia riverbed is of great interest and can be developed in various aspects.

Historical Context and Transformation of the Turia Riverbed:

After the devastating flood of 1957, the Turia River was diverted, and its old riverbed was transformed into a linear garden. This 9-kilometer-long garden is not only an engineering and urban planning feat but also an example of how an urban space can be recycled and transformed for the cultural and social benefit of the city.

Connection of Cultural Centers Along the Riverbed City of Arts and Sciences:

This architectural complex by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela is a landmark of modern architecture and a cultural epicenter. It attracts millions of visitors every year with its museums, the largest aquarium in Europe, and an IMAX cinema, among other attractions.

Palau de la Música:

This auditorium is one of the most important spaces for classical music in Spain and a meeting point for music lovers.

Gulliver Park:

Although primarily a children's park, its design, inspired by Jonathan Swift's novel, makes it an interactive work of art and an educational space.

IVAM (Valencian Institute of Modern Art):

Just steps away from the riverbed, this museum is one of the most important in Spain dedicated to modern and contemporary art, with a permanent collection and internationally renowned temporary exhibitions.

Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia:

Located next to the old riverbed, it houses an impressive art collection that spans from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, with works by artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch.

Convent of the Trinity:

One of the most important historical buildings in Valencia, its history dates back to the 13th century when it was founded by Queen Maria of Castile. Originally, the convent housed Trinitarian nuns and became an important religious and cultural center.

Potential of a Cultural Mapping

The idea of a cultural mapping of the old Turia riverbed and other cultural axes of the city offers multiple benefits:
- Promotion of Cultural Tourism: A detailed map would serve as a guide for tourists interested in Valencia's cultural heritage, making it easier to plan tours and visits.
- Fostering Education and Knowledge: It could be used in educational programs to teach students about the city's rich cultural heritage and the importance of its preservation.
- Revitalization and Dynamization of Urban Space: By highlighting key cultural points, it can encourage greater use and enjoyment of these spaces by both residents and visitors.
- Connection Between Past and Present: This map would not only highlight current cultural institutions but also historic sites and their evolution, creating a cohesive narrative of Valencia's history.

Creating a cultural map that integrates the old Turia riverbed and other cultural axes of Valencia is an idea that not only makes sense but could also have a significant impact on the promotion and appreciation of the city's cultural heritage. By emphasizing the interconnection of these cultural points, a coherent and attractive narrative can be created that enriches both residents and visitors, making Valencia a top-tier cultural destination.

Integration of Urban Art and Mobility in the Cultural Riverbed

The old Turia riverbed in Valencia is not just a traditional cultural corridor; it also hosts expressions of urban art, such as graffiti created during various festivals. Additionally, the inclusion of cycling routes to interconnect these places adds an extra dimension of accessibility and sustainability. This plan details how to integrate these elements into the cultural map and how to enhance mobility through cycling.

Inclusion of Urban Art in the Cultural Riverbed

- Urban Art and Graffiti
- Graffiti and Urban Art Festival: Over the years, festivals like "Abstracte un riu d’art" dedicated to urban art have left a significant mark on the Turia riverbed. These works not only beautify the surroundings but also offer a platform for local and international artists.
- Location and Mapping: Include in the cultural map the specific locations where graffiti and murals are found, highlighting the artists and the history behind each piece.
- Thematic Urban Art Routes: Create specific routes within the Turia riverbed that allow visitors to explore and appreciate urban art, complemented with information and context about each work and its creator.

Sustainable Mobility

- The Bicycle as a Means of Interconnection
- Cycling Routes: Design cycling routes that connect all the cultural points of interest along the Turia riverbed. These routes should be well signposted and equipped with rest areas and bike rental stations.
- Bike Stations: Implement bike rental and parking stations at strategic points, such as the City of Arts and Sciences, the IVAM, the Museum of Fine Arts, and other places of interest.
- Workshops and Maintenance Services: Offer bicycle repair and maintenance workshops at various points along the route, facilitating the continuous use of this mode of transportation.

Additional Strategies

- Promotion of Urban Art: Interactive Maps and QR Codes: Include interactive maps on the website and app, with QR codes on each mural or graffiti piece that provide information about the work and the artist.
- Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to share images and videos of urban art, with stories about the artists and the creative process.

Promotion of Sustainable Mobility

- Awareness Campaigns: Run social media and local media campaigns to promote the use of bicycles, highlighting their health and environmental benefits.
- Collaboration with Bicycle Companies: Establish partnerships with bike rental companies and local shops to offer discounts and promotions to users of the "Cultural Riverbed."

Promotion of the Convent of the Trinity

- Guided Tours and Events: Organize guided tours and special events at the Convent of the Trinity, highlighting its history, architecture, and role as a contemporary cultural space.
- Multimedia Content: Create documentary videos and detailed articles about the convent's history, available on the website and app.