El Tribunal de les Aigües

The Tribunal de les Aigües (Water Court) is one of those things that you have to see in Valencia if your visit allows it. It is not a historical building or an emblematic park, but rather a traditional act that encompasses many parts of Valencian culture. From Sea You Hotel, we tell you what it is, how to see it and why it is so important.

The Tribunal de les Aigües (Water Court of Valencia) is one of the oldest institutions in Europe, a customary court (based on custom) that regulates the use of water in the Valencian orchard.

It is said that its origin dates back to Muslim times (8th to 13th centuries) and was created to guarantee the fair and efficient distribution of water, essential for agriculture in the area.

This tradition is still maintained today and every Thursday at noon, representatives meet at the Door of the Apostles of the Cathedral of Valencia to resolve disputes related to the irrigation of the ditches.

A millenary institution whose sentences, delivered orally, are binding. The court is made up of eight representatives, each representing one of the main ditches of the Valencian orchard. Every week, farmers can go to court to resolve disputes over water use. The hearings are held in Valencian and in a simple format: those affected explain their case and the representatives immediately issue a sentence, resolving conflicts in an agile and transparent manner.

It was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009. It is much more than an agricultural justice body; It is a symbol of Valencian identity and tradition.

Its permanence over the centuries reflects the respect for the natural environment and the sense of community that revolves around the garden. For this reason, we recommend seeing the court in action as a unique experience to present how ancestral laws are applied in the 21st century, being an example of how the collective management of natural resources can work efficiently and fairly. It is also a reminder of the importance of preserving traditions for future generations.

If you are looking for a hotel for your trip to Valencia, take a look at our website to find rooms at your level with good prices. In addition, the hotel is located in the square with the same name, Plaça Tribunal de les Aigües.