The Casa dels Bous, an emblematic building of Valencian maritime heritage, begins a new chapter as the Valencia Maritime Museum. The official inauguration will take place on Tuesday, September 15th, after which the museum will offer free and open access to all visitors. This new space aims to recover and disseminate the history of fishing, traditional maritime trades, and the deep connection of the Poblats Marítims (Maritime Neighborhoods) with the Mediterranean.
The museum will place special emphasis on the 'pesca del bou' (ox fishing), a traditional trawling method that marked the lives of fishermen in Cabanyal and Canyamelar for generations. Additionally, it will explain ancient trades linked to the Valencian coast, such as the dyeing of hemp nets, the evolution of the Port of Valencia, and the history of the maritime districts. The exhibition will include pieces such as a traditional 'llaüt' boat, fishing gear, and reproductions of oxen, which were key animals in the pre-mechanization era for launching and beaching fishing boats.
To celebrate its opening, the Maritime Museum has organized a special five-day program, from Wednesday, September 16th, to Sunday, September 20th. These days will feature guided tours, talks, conferences, concerts, and demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as net-mending. The celebration will culminate on Sunday with a paella tasting and musical performances.
The Casa dels Bous, built between 1877 and 1895 by the society Marina Auxiliante, was fundamental to the neighborhood's fishing activity. It was part of a heritage complex that included the Fish Market (Llotja de Pescadors) and the old net-dyeing sheds (casetes de Tenyidors). The restoration of this space also highlights the memory of the Tenyidors, recovering the history of a craft trade linked to the Valencian coast.
The museum's exhibition route will also reference prominent figures such as the painter Joaquín Sorolla, for his connection with Valencian maritime scenes, and the writer Vicente Blasco Ibáñez, for his novel 'Flor de mayo', which portrays the life of fishermen.
The visiting hours for the Maritime Museum will be from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and on Sundays, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The center will be closed on Mondays.
