Valencia is opening its doors to a new Holy Year dedicated to the Holy Grail – one of Christianity’s most mythical relics and a central part of the city’s identity since the 15th century. An extensive programme of exhibitions, city walks, cultural events and the launch of a brand new visitor centre in the historic Almudín building will run until October 2026.
Valencia holds a unique place in the story of the Holy Grail, the cup believed to have been used by Jesus at the Last Supper. The relic has been part of the city's history since 1424. Today, Valencia is considered the birthplace of the Holy Grail and every five years, a Holy Year is celebrated - a jubilee approved by the Pope.
New visitor center in historic building
As part of the Holy Year 2025-2026, Valencia will open a new visitor center in the historic Almudín building. Here, visitors will be introduced to the history, symbolism and significance of the Grail for the city. The visitor center has been developed in collaboration between Valencia and the Fundación del Santo Cáliz. Through exhibitions, the center aims to give visitors a deeper understanding of why Valencia plays such an important role in the story of the Holy Grail.
“The Holy Year opens up Valencia’s cultural heritage to new audiences. The Holy Grail is not just a relic – it is a key to understanding the city’s history and the importance Valencia has had for the Christian world,” says María José Catalá, Mayor of Valencia.
The new centre combines modern exhibition technology with the historic setting of the Almudín. Here, visitors can follow both the history and the archaeological traces that link the Grail to the city. The centre is also the starting point for the Ruta del Santo Cáliz – a themed walk that passes through the city’s most symbolic sites, such as the Gothic cathedral where the Grail is kept, the Silk Exchange – La Lonja de la Seda, the Serranos Towers and the Real Monasterio de la Trinidad.
A whole year of cultural highlights
During the Holy Year, Valencia offers an extensive program of cultural highlights – concerts, lectures, guided tours and several major exhibitions, including ”A World to Discover – The Holy Grail of Valencia” at the MUVIM Museum (Valencian Museum of the Enlightment and Modernity), which will be on display from November 2025 to February 2026.
A symbol of Valencia's golden age
The history of the Grail extends far beyond the borders of Spain. The upper part of the cup is made of polished agate and dates back to the period between 400 BC and 100 AD. It traveled from Jerusalem and Rome via Huesca and Zaragoza before reaching Valencia. Here it has since played a prominent role in religious life and has been used by both Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI during their visits to the city. The relic is also an expression of Valencia's golden age, when local artists, philosophers and architects had great influence throughout the Mediterranean region.
FACTS: The Holy Year in Valencia 2025-2026
What is the Holy Year?
The Holy Year of the Holy Grail (Santo Cáliz) is a jubilee year celebrated every five years in Valencia. The jubilee year is approved by the Pope and is given to Valencia because the Grail is kept in the city's cathedral.
When does it take place?
The anniversary year runs from October 30, 2025 to October 29, 2026.
Why Valencia?
Valencia is officially the “City of the Holy Grail.” The Grail arrived here in 1424 and has been kept in the cathedral ever since. In 2015, the city was granted the permanent right to celebrate the anniversary every five years.
FACT: This happens during the Holy Year
- New visitor center. A new visitor center has opened in the historic Almudín building. Here, visitors are introduced to the history, symbolism and connection of the Grail to Valencia.
- New theme route: Ruta del Santo Cáliz. A themed walking route through the city's most iconic places: the Cathedral, the Silk Exchange, the Serranos Towers, the Real Monasterio de la Trinidad and more.
- Major exhibitions
”A world to discover – the Holy Grail of Valencia” at MUVIM (Valencian Museum of the Enlightment and Modernity) between November 2025 – February 2026. A series of visual and historical exhibitions are on display at the visitor center and other cultural institutions. - Events and activities. Lectures, concerts, guided tours, workshops and special exhibitions in the cathedral.
