Well, if I have to describe it with one word, I would say history .

Heritage is everything we inheirt from the past and what makes places, cultures and people what they are.

Without it, we wouldn't know where we come from, we wouldn't have identity or could we learn from past mistakes.

In summary for me heritage is everything that connects us to past, defines the present and inspired us for the future.

European heritage covers centuries of history and culture: old cities, medieval castles, big cathedrals, and museums with famous artworks. It also includes traditions, languages, food, and important ideas.

• Historical and architectural: Colosseum, Acropolis, medieval towns, beautiful cities like Prague and Venice.
• Artistic: from the Renaissance to the Impressionists; museums like the Louvre and the Prado.
• Intellectual: philosophy, science, and political ideas that changed the world.
• Cultural and food different cultures, pasta, paella, cheese, chocolate.
• Musical: from Mozart to traditional music and Berlin techno.
• Natural: Alps, fjords, volcanoes, Mediterranean peaches.

The heritage of Valencia reveals a profoundly European history. A Roman city was born here, complete with a forum, baths, and roads, integrated into the Hispania of the Roman Empire. Later, the Islamic world left its mark on urban planning, agriculture, and science, connecting Al-Andalus with Europe. After the Christian conquest, Valencia became part of the European crowns and international trade. The Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda) symbolizes the economic exchange of the 15th century, when Valencia engaged in dialogue with Genoa, Bruges, and Florence, playing an active role in the shared history of Europe.

Valencia unveils a genuinely intriguing blend of its heritage. Santiago Calatrava's futuristic City of Arts and Sciences beautifully contrasts with the ancient Barrio del Carmen. Whilst wanderering the small streets, remnants like the commanding Torres de Serranos, old city walls, are visible.

Culturally, the Fallas festival is truly unparalleled, a large firey festival, full of awesome meeting art. The Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site is an historical cornerstone that shows how critical Valencia was, to Mediterranean trade. One also mustn't over look the flavor of the region: proper paella and bright ceramics complete the whole journey. This city really does show stark differences.