Museum of the Mariner's Holy Week
Housed in a former rice mill, this museum is a true temple of the city's Holy Week traditions. It is dedicated to the Maritime Holy Week, a title that reflects its celebration in Valencia's historic seaside districts. Specifically, it takes place in the neighbourhoods of El Grau, Canyamelar and El Cabanyal.
This house museum is also known as the "Salvador Caurín House Museum", in honour of the man who served for many years as mentor and president of its governing council. From the moment you step inside, you can sense the mystical atmosphere of this place, which preserves the artistic heritage of the city's different religious brotherhoods and confraternities. Highlights include works by renowned sculptors such as Mariano Benlliure, Bernardo Morales, Carlos Román, Vicente Salvador and Inocencio Cuesta, among others. You can also admire traditional costumes, ornaments, banners, ceremonial staffs, publications, heritage objects belonging to different associations and other items used during the processions. Every piece is accompanied by detailed information, so you won't miss a thing.
The exhibition also features a panel illustrating how this religious celebration has evolved over the years. Perhaps the most striking display is the collection of costumes representing biblical figures. This is hardly surprising, as one of the defining features of Valencia's Maritime Holy Week is the live re-enactment of the three key episodes commemorated during this period: the Passion, the Death and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The museum also serves as a cultural centre, hosting temporary exhibitions, lectures, Holy Week music concerts and competitions for marching bands featuring bugles and drums.
As you can see, it is a landmark venue for understanding how Holy Week is experienced and celebrated in these traditional fishing neighbourhoods.