La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange) is Valencia's most historic building, and its only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 1482 and 1548 at the height of Valencia's Golden Age, the Lonja is like a church devoted to the god of commerce.
At the end of the 15th century, Valencia was the extremely wealthy capital of its own kingdom. So when the decision was made to build a new exchange hall, it had to be one which would leave visiting traders with no doubts as to the city's power and prosperity.
(thanks Juergen)
