Casa Ordeig, Valencia

Attraction, Historic Building and Notable Building in Valencia

Casa Ordeig
Casa Ordeig
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Joanbanjo

Casa Ordeig is a striking early-20th-century residential building in Valencia's historic center, set right on Plaça del Mercat beside the Central Market and steps from La Lonja de la Seda. Even if you only have an hour in the Old Town, its corner tower and richly decorated façade make it one of the easiest “wow” moments to add to your stroll.

Because it sits in the middle of Valencia's most walkable sightseeing zone, Casa Ordeig works best as a quick stop on a walking tour linking the Central Market, La Lonja, and the surrounding lanes of El Carme. The best views are from the open square: pause, look up, and you'll spot the building's modernist textures and neo-Gothic flourishes that echo the nearby medieval landmarks.

History and Significance of the Casa Ordeig

Casa Ordeig was built in the early 1900s as a multi-family residential building and is closely associated with Valencian Modernisme, the local expression of Art Nouveau. Its location on the market square is no accident: this was (and still is) one of Valencia's most important civic and commercial stages, where architecture competes for attention.

The building is credited to architect Francisco Mora Berenguer, a key figure in Valencian modernist architecture. The design blends modernist surface decoration with a revival of Gothic-inspired forms, a nod to the powerful medieval presence next door at La Lonja.

What makes Casa Ordeig especially memorable is how it turns a practical corner plot into a landmark: the vertical emphasis, the tower-like crown, and the layered façade details reward anyone who slows down for more than a passing glance.

Things to See and Do in the Casa Ordeig

Start by taking in the corner composition from Plaça del Mercat: the building reads differently depending on where you stand, and the tower becomes a natural focal point as you circle the square. Look for the projecting bay windows and balcony lines that create depth and shadow, especially in late-afternoon light.

Next, scan the façade for decorative craftwork typical of the era: patterned surfaces, ornamental framing around windows, and wrought-iron elements that soften the building’s geometry. The neo-Gothic touches feel like a conversation with the surrounding historic monuments, making it a great “compare and contrast” stop between the Central Market and La Lonja.

Finally, use Casa Ordeig as a navigation anchor for a compact photo-and-snack loop: Central Market for a quick bite, La Lonja for grand medieval architecture, and the small streets behind the square for quieter corners and local cafés.

How to Get to the Casa Ordeig

Valencia Airport (VLC) is the closest airport for most travelers, with Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC) a common alternative if you're combining cities on Spain's east coast. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Valencia on Booking.com.

Valencia is well connected by rail, and arriving at Estació del Nord (or Joaquín Sorolla for many high-speed services) makes it easy to continue by metro, bus, or taxi into the Old Town. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re traveling by car, aim to park outside the tight historic center and walk in, since streets around Plaça del Mercat can be restricted and parking is limited. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Casa Ordeig

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds around the market square, or near sunset for dramatic shadows on the façade.
  • How long to spend: 10–20 minutes is enough for photos and façade-spotting, or 45–90 minutes if you pair it with the Central Market and La Lonja next door.
  • Accessibility: The best views are from flat, open pedestrian areas around Plaça del Mercat, though surfaces can be busy and uneven in spots due to heavy foot traffic.
  • Facilities: There are plenty of nearby cafés, public-transport stops, and services around the market area; plan restroom breaks at nearby venues like the market or cafés.

Where to Stay Close to the Casa Ordeig

Base yourself in the Old Town (Ciutat Vella) to be able to walk to Casa Ordeig early and late, when the square feels most atmospheric.

If you want to wake up steps from Valencia’s headline sights, choose a central boutique stay with easy access to Plaça del Mercat and the surrounding lanes. Caro Hotel Included for its high-end boutique feel and prime historic-center location for walking everywhere. Only YOU Hotel Valencia A stylish option close to the Old Town edge, great for travelers who want design-forward comfort and easy transport links. Hotel Dimar Chosen for a convenient Eixample base that balances walkability with a calmer, more residential vibe. Vincci Mercat A strong pick for being very close to the market area, ideal for early starts and quick returns between stops. SH Valencia Palace Included for travelers who want a larger, full-service hotel feel with easy access to both the center and the City of Arts and Sciences.

Is the Casa Ordeig Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy architecture or want a quick, high-impact stop that costs nothing and fits seamlessly into a Central Market and La Lonja walk. It’s one of those places where a two-minute pause turns into a mini lesson in how Valencia’s early-1900s confidence showed up in everyday residential buildings.

Honest Pivot: if you’re not interested in façades, details, or photography, you can skip making it a dedicated stop and simply let it be a “nice corner building” you notice while heading into the market. It’s best appreciated from the outside, so travelers expecting an interior visit or a formal exhibit may feel underwhelmed.

What Other Travellers Say...

4.8 (4)
Dylan Nihte
a year ago
"gorgeous setting and close to great cafes with love music"
ANTONIO MORIEL FERNANDEZ
10 months ago
"This building is located near Valencia's Central Market. It is in the Modernist style. Built by architect Francisco de Mora y Berenguer (designer ofthe Exhibition Palace and the façade of the town hall), it was constructed in 1907. Due to its proximity to the market, it was inspired by the Lonja de Mercaderes (Merchant's Exchange). Only the façade can be viewed; it is a private building...."
Lluis Higini Melero Peris
3 years ago
"It's a building that would almost go u oticed were it not for the sign on the facade, where the Valencia City Council highlights buildings ofhistorical value. In this case, under the slogan "Valencia Museu Obert" (Valencia Open Museum), it offers visitors and locals alike the opportunity to learn more about the city. The plaque provides information about the building's significance. (See photo). This building, or house, is located on a corner near the Central Market. It was renovated in 1991. Notable features include the glass-enclosed bay windows on the upper floors and the balconies overlooking the terrace. The building comprises a ground floor, a mezzanine, and three upper floors, crowned by a raised terrace in the style of a medieval tower. See photos..."

For Different Travelers

Casa Ordeig is a flexible, low-commitment sight: you can treat it as a quick photo stop or as a deeper architecture moment while exploring the market district. Because it's outdoors and central, it's easy to tailor to your pace and interests.

Families with Kids

Kids often enjoy the “spot the tower” game and the idea that buildings can look like castles even when they’re just apartments. Pair it with a snack mission inside the Central Market to keep the stop fun and short.

If your family is doing a walking day, use Casa Ordeig as a reset point: it's easy to regroup in the open square and decide what's next. Keep expectations simple and focus on quick visuals rather than long explanations.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, Casa Ordeig is a great “stroll-and-look-up” moment in one of Valencia's most atmospheric areas. The surrounding streets are perfect for lingering, especially if you time it for golden hour and then drift toward a tapas stop.

It also works well as a low-pressure highlight between bigger-ticket attractions. You get a memorable backdrop without needing reservations, lines, or a strict schedule.

Budget Travelers

This is an ideal budget-friendly sight: it's central, free to view, and pairs naturally with other walkable highlights. If you're building a DIY architecture route, Casa Ordeig is a strong anchor point.

To stretch your day, combine it with a market browse, a picnic-style lunch, and a self-guided wander through El Carme. You’ll get a full, satisfying itinerary with minimal spend.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate how Casa Ordeig reflects Valencia's early-1900s urban identity while visually referencing the much older Gothic monuments nearby. It's a quick way to see layers of the city's timeline in a single glance.

Use it as a prompt to compare styles: medieval civic grandeur at La Lonja, modernist optimism at Casa Ordeig, and the market's own architectural statement across the square. The neighborhood becomes a compact history lesson without needing a museum ticket.

FAQs for Visiting Casa Ordeig

Getting There

Yes, it’s in the heart of Ciutat Vella on Plaça del Mercat, so it’s naturally included on most Old Town walks. If you’re already visiting the Central Market or La Lonja, you’re essentially there.
A taxi or city bus is the quickest, but walking can also work if you want to see the center as you go. Aim for Plaça del Mercat and you’ll spot the building on the corner.
Yes, you can use the metro to get close and then finish on foot through the historic streets. The final approach is best done walking because the area is pedestrian-friendly.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s an exterior landmark and can be enjoyed from the square at any time. Treat it as a photo stop and architectural look-up.
Typically no, as it’s a residential building rather than a public museum. Plan to appreciate it from the outside.
Many Old Town and architecture-themed walking tours pass through Plaça del Mercat. If you’re booking a tour, ask whether the market district and modernist façades are included.

Visiting Experience

Focus on the corner tower, the projecting windows, and the decorative details that mix modernist textures with neo-Gothic cues. Walking a few steps left and right changes the perspective a lot.
It’s naturally a quick stop, but it becomes more rewarding if you slow down and compare it to the surrounding architecture. Pairing it with nearby sights turns it into a satisfying mini-route.
The square can be busy because of the Central Market and La Lonja. If you want calmer viewing, go earlier in the day or later in the evening.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Combine it with the Central Market, La Lonja, and a wander through El Carme for a compact, high-impact route. Add a café stop nearby to pace the walk.
Yes, because a guide can point out the small details you might miss and connect the style to Valencia’s broader modernist movement. It also helps you notice how it references nearby Gothic landmarks.
Start at the Central Market, step out to view Casa Ordeig from the square, then head to La Lonja and finish by exploring the lanes behind the market. This keeps walking minimal and sights dense.

Photography

Stand back in Plaça del Mercat to capture the corner angle and tower in one frame. A second set from the side street helps highlight the building’s depth and lines.
Morning gives softer light and fewer people; late afternoon often adds contrast and texture to the façade. If the square is busy, be patient and shoot upward to avoid crowds.
No, a phone camera works well because the building is close and dramatic. A wide-angle lens can help if you want the full corner composition.

Accessibility & Facilities

The viewing is outdoors and mostly flat, but the historic center can have uneven paving and heavy foot traffic. Plan a slower approach and choose quieter times.
Not at the building itself, but the surrounding market-and-café area offers plenty of options. Plan to use facilities at nearby venues.
Yes, you’ll find café terraces and places to pause around the market district. It’s easy to turn the stop into a short break.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, it’s right by the Central Market, one of the best places in the city for quick bites. It’s ideal for a “look up, then grab something” rhythm.
Either works, but visiting first can help you avoid carrying food while you take photos. If you go early, you can follow up with a market breakfast.
Yes, the surrounding streets have plenty of cafés and restaurants. It’s a convenient area to build in a rest without detouring.

Safety & Timing

The area is central and lively, but like any busy tourist zone, keep an eye on your belongings. Late evening is best if you want fewer crowds and a calmer square.
Go early in the morning or later in the day, especially if you want clean photos. Midday can be the most congested due to market traffic.
Because it’s an outdoor viewing stop, rain can make the square less comfortable and photos harder. On hot days, plan shade breaks in nearby cafés.

Nearby Attractions to the Casa Ordeig

  • Central Market (Mercado Central): A landmark food market where you can snack, browse local produce, and soak up Valencia's everyday energy.
  • La Lonja de la Seda: Valencia's iconic Gothic silk exchange, an essential stop for architecture and history lovers.
  • Plaça Redona: A small circular square nearby that’s fun for a quick wander and souvenir browsing.
  • Valencia Cathedral: A short walk away, offering a major historic interior and a classic Old Town atmosphere.
  • Torres de Serranos: One of Valencia's best-known medieval gates, great for understanding the city's historic defenses and layout.

The Casa Ordeig appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Valencia!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Carrer dels Ramellets, 1, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain
Valencia: 2 km

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