City of arts and science - futuristic architecture

We took a leisurely stroll to see the futuristic City of Arts and Science.

There's plenty to do inside the buildings if you're feeling flush and have some dosh.

But it is equally worthwhile just to wander around the outside of the complex, gawking at the amazing buildings and soaking up the sun.

Kids scramble around in inflatable balls on the water, squeaking and flailing, while groups of teenagers try to sneak a toe into the tempting waters.



Set in the bed of the River Turia, this complex was designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela and is a dazzling white display of sci fi like buildings set in tempting pools of azure water.



Cooling as the water looks, you're not allowed to paddle! A man in a golf cart whizzes around blowing a whistle if you try . . .  . so of course we broke the law (a little).

The complex is made up of a variety of different buildings including the Hemisfèric (IMAX cinema and digital projections) designed to look like an eye floating on the water.

There's also the Principe Felipe Science museum, the Oceanográfico (the largest aquarium in Europe with over 500 marine species) and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía.

The deep blue Agora hosts concerts, exhibitions and other things.

There's also the Umbracle a landscaped vantage point and car park.

There's a peaceful winter garden type affair to stroll through which is very welcome for a break from the sun and the crowds.

There are also some planet and astronomical type installments that you can try out.