Look for a grand, cream-colored mansion with arched windows at the top and two main doors set side by side, right across from the statue-topped column in Plaza de Manises-this is the Palace of the Marquis of La Scala.
Alright, imagine yourself standing here in the Plaza de Manises, the sun warming your face as you gaze up at the stately Palace of the Marquis of La Scala. It’s easy to believe this place has secrets, with its twin mansions blended into one, balconies popping out from the main floor and upper gallery, and-if you look closely-a remarkable square tower capped with round balls, something you’d almost never see elsewhere in Valencia! Back in the 16th century, this spot would have echoed with the clatter of carriages and noble boots, but over centuries, the palace has donned new styles like an old countess changing hats: a touch of Valencian Gothic, a flourish of Renaissance arches, and some flamboyant 18th-century Baroque.
Step up and you’ll spy a solid stone doorway surrounded by long brick walls, with a row of Renaissance arches peeking above like watchful eyes. If we could tiptoe inside (and not get caught!), you’d find a wide entry hall with heavy wooden beams-sturdy enough to make any carpenter jealous. Beyond that lies a sunlit courtyard where hints of Gothic design still linger, and a magnificent staircase that hangs so gracefully you’d swear it’s floating. Even the main staircase upstairs was once crowned by a floral fresco beneath an oval dome.
And here’s a fun fact for you-this palace was once so important, it rivaled the power of the Generalitat, the Valencian government itself! Even today, the plaza is bursting with history. Right beside you is the Bailía, and the neoclassical Casa de Vallier, all watched over by a column topped with a rugged “conquistador” statue, a tribute to Spanish heritage. I say, if these old walls could talk, they’d definitely have a few stories to argue about whose party was the best!
