Valencia's Escuelas Pías Opens Its Dome to Culture

The Royal College will host guided tours and a new immersive concert series starting in September.

Generic image of the monumental dome of the Church of San Joaquín in Valencia.
IA

Generic image of the monumental dome of the Church of San Joaquín in Valencia.

The Royal College of Escuelas Pías in Valencia is launching a new cultural program in September that combines public access to its monumental complex with performing arts under its grand dome.

Following the success of recent visits, the monument is introducing new public opening days and the 'Conciertos bajo la cúpula' (Concerts under the Dome) series, designed for its unique architectural space. Starting September 5th, the Royal College will open its doors on various dates until the end of the year.
The tours allow visitors to freely explore the Church of San Joaquín with a mobile audioguide, detailing the history, architecture, and restoration process of the complex. The route includes ascending to the first ring beneath the dome, offering a privileged perspective of the interior.
The cultural program also features 'Conciertos bajo la cúpula,' a series of musical performances that integrate the architecture as an active part of the experience. Produced by Ars Magna, the series leverages the circular floor plan, the dome, and the relationship between architecture, perspective, and light for dialogues involving lighting, dramaturgy, and audiovisual languages.
Intended as a stable program, the series will kick off with 'All’ Alba Vincerò' (September 25th), 'Pianolight: Impresionistas' (October 23rd), and 'Claire. La vida secreta del agua' (November 20th). The productions will feature various ensembles and repertoires, incorporating dance and other scenic elements.
A press release highlights the central idea of integrating architecture as an active component of the artistic experience. The dome of San Joaquín, approximately 24.5 meters in diameter, is a key element for this new programming. The comprehensive restoration has fully recovered the building, which was recognized with the Europa Nostra Award.