Archaeological treasure in the center of Valencia
The Crypt of the Prison of San Vicente (Cárcel de San Vicente) is actually an underground funerary chapel dating back to the Visigothic era (6th century). It was supposedly built over one of the sites where Saint Vincent the Martyr, patron saint of Valencia, was imprisoned—hence its name.
The cross-shaped building with a vaulted roof was part of the episcopal complex that included the Visigothic cathedral, of which parts of the apse remain visible. Inside, burial spaces were found, including a tomb with the remains of a possible 6th-century prelate. There are also traces of its use as palatial baths during the Islamic era, along with other vestiges from various periods. An evocative audiovisual projection in the midst of this archaeological treasure allows visitors to travel through time, transporting them to the very origins of Valencia.
The Crypt of the Prison of San Vicente is often included in "Vincentian routes" that visit locations associated with the saint throughout the city. His feast day, January 22nd, is celebrated with a program of religious and civil events that typically includes a Mozarabic rite mass held right here.
Why visit the Crypt of the Prison of San Vicente
- It is a Visigothic construction in an excellent state of preservation
- It houses archaeological treasures ranging from the Roman era to the Islamic period
- To enjoy an audiovisual journey through the history of Valencia in a unique setting
- As part of a Vincentian route, following the footsteps of the saint through the city
What to see at the Crypt of the Prison of San Vicente
Visigothic Architecture
This is a construction of ashlar and masonry in perfect condition. Highlights include the decorated screens (cancels) of the presbytery and the attention to detail on the exterior.
Roman Remains
The archaeological excavation that revealed the Visigothic chapel also uncovered fragments of a Roman mural painting of the god Mercury. Furthermore, the crypt is located above the ancient Cardo Maximus, the city's extension of the Via Augusta.
Archaeological Treasures
The recovered archaeological remains include everything from part of an early Christian sarcophagus to bronze jars and ceramic pieces from the 10th and 11th centuries.
