How about a quest for the Holy Grail?
Spoiler alert: no dragons to slay or kingdoms to cross. All you need is a train ticket to Valencia, Spain.
That’s right, amigos! The Holy Grail, the cup of legends, is said to be resting (with all due reverence) in the Valencia Cathedral.
No need to channel your inner Indiana Jones or transform into a Knight of the Round Table—just follow this guide, and you’ll be on your way to seeing the Holy Chalice of Valencia, one of the world’s most enigmatic treasures.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Valencia, Spain
What is the Holy Grail exactly?
The Holy Grail, believed to be the vessel that Jesus used to serve wine at the Last Supper, is like the celebrity of religious artifacts, if you please. Throughout history, knights, kings, and even modern-day adventurers have been tripping over themselves to get a glimpse or a grasp of it.
Some say the Holy Grail grants eternal youth or happiness, making it the ancient world’s answer to modern self-help books. And while everyone from Indiana Jones to Monty Python has had a crack at finding it, the Grail remains as mysterious as a celebrity hiding behind oversized hoodies and sunglasses, incognito mode on.
In Valencia, they claim to have the real deal Holy Chalice. Though, like a true A-lister, it keeps its secrets well, leaving us all in a delightful state of wonder and curiosity.
How to see the Holy Grail by train?
First things first, getting there without a hitch. If you’re in Spain, trains are your best friend. They’re punctual, comfortable, and they don’t breathe fire—that’s a plus!
Hop on a train to Valencia’s Joaquín Sorolla station or Estaciò Nord. Both stations are central, and from there, you can just follow the signs, or the flow of fellow Holy Grail seekers, to the Valencia Cathedral. It’s in the heart of the city, so you can’t miss it. Plus, the stroll through Valencia’s streets is a treat in itself.
Where is the Holy Chalice located?
The Holy Grail is showcased in its own special chapel in the Valencia Cathedral. It’s hard to overlook—it’s got the spotlight, quite literally!
Image Credit: Getty Images, Santiago Urquijo. Image Location: St. Mary Cathedral, Valencia, Italy
How did the Holy Grail end up in Valencia?
Well, it’s much like the ultimate game of historical pass-the-parcel. Legend has it that this chalice has been on quite the journey, from Jerusalem to Rome, and then, under mysterious circumstances, it found its way to Spain. It’s been in Valencia since the 15th century, and let’s just say, it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
Visiting the Holy Grail in Valencia, Spain: 3 helpful tips
- Dress chill but respectful. Cover up your shoulders and knees—no shorts or tank tops. Opt for a nice tee with pants or a knee-length dress, and you’ll fit right in.
- Score a sweet 20% discount. The Valencia Tourist Card is your golden ticket for free entry into city museums and monuments, plus discounts at major tourist spots. Go for the 24-, 48-, or 72-hour card and enjoy unlimited free travel on buses, metros, trams, and local trains.
- Snap wisely. Some parts of the cathedral are no-photo zones. Always check for signs or ask staff before you click to avoid any awkward moments. You don’t wanna be “that tourist.”
What else to see in the Valencia Cathedral?
Make sure you don’t miss the Miguelete Tower. It’s the cathedral’s iconic bell tower, and if you’re up for it, you can climb the spiraling staircase. The 207 steps might leave you a bit winded, but the panoramic views of the city from the top are absolutely worth it—it’s like having Valencia in the palm of your hand!
And if you’re into art, the cathedral’s museum is your next stop. It’s home to a collection of stunning paintings and religious artifacts that tell the story of Valencia’s rich history. The blend of Gothic and Baroque styles in the artwork and sculptures is just mesmerizing.
Images Credit: Getty Images, Tetra Images. Image Location: St. Mary Cathedral, Valencia, Spain
Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Grail: frequently asked questions
Does Spain have the Holy Grail?
Yes, Spain claims to have the Holy Grail. The Valencia Cathedral, officially known as the Metropolitan Cathedral–Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia, houses what is believed to be the original Holy Grail, the chalice used by Jesus during the Last Supper.
How did the Holy Chalice get to Valencia?
The journey of the Holy Chalice to Valencia is shrouded in mystery and steeped in history. While the exact details of its journey are not fully documented, it’s believed that the chalice was brought to Spain during the early Christian era and found its way to the Valencia Cathedral over centuries, becoming an integral part of its religious heritage.
Can you see the Holy Grail in Valencia?
Absolutely! You can see the Holy Grail in the Valencia Cathedral. It’s kept in a special chapel within the cathedral, known as the Chapel of the Holy Chalice (in Spanish: Capilla del Santo Cáliz).
What are the relics of the Valencia Cathedral?
Besides the Holy Grail, the Valencia Cathedral is home to several other relics and treasures. This includes a rich collection of 15th-century paintings and various liturgical items.
Image Credit: Getty Images, VitalyEdush. Image Location: Valencia Cathedral, Valencia, Spain
How much are the tickets to enter the Valencia Cathedral?
Entrance to the Valencia Cathedral requires a ticket, which costs €9 ($9.80). This ticket allows you to explore the interior of the cathedral, marvel at the artworks, and see the Holy Grail.
If you’re more into views than relics and would rather just climb up to the top of the cathedral’s tower, here’s the scoop. Head straight through the main door of the cathedral, then turn left, steering clear of the ticket counter. For just €2.50 ($2.70), you can tackle the ancient stone steps leading to the summit of the Miguelete Tower. Remember, this option’s all about the panoramic city views from 206.7 feet up, so it doesn’t include a peek at the Holy Grail. But hey, it’s the best selfie spot in town, hands down!
What is the best time to see the Holy Grail?
To avoid crowds and have a more tranquil experience, it’s best to visit the Valencia Cathedral early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This way, you can enjoy the serenity of the cathedral and spend time viewing the Holy Grail without the rush.
Ditch the horse, grab your phone—your quest for the Holy Grail just got a major upgrade. Snag that digital ticket with the Trainline app and you’re off to Valencia. Who knew hunting relics could be so comfy?
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, VitalyEdush. Image Location: Valencia, Spain