Check out the historical sites connected to the scandalous Borgia family, originally from the region of Valencia in Spain. The family is known for producing two popes of the Vatican, along with many other influential church and political figures in Italian history.

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Top Borgia Landmarks in Valencia, Spain

Were the Borgias from Spain?

Yes, the Borgias originated from Spain. Their most famous member, Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia), was born in 1431 in Xativa, a small town near Valencia in eastern Spain. Xativa is known for its historic castle and is a popular Valencia day trip. Although the Borgias are most closely associated with Italy due to their prominence in Rome and Rodrigo Borgia’s election as pope, their origins and early history are distinctly Spanish.

What is the Borgia family famous for?

The Borgia family (called Borja in Spain) was a noble lineage originating from Valencia. They were always wealthy and powerful due to their connections with the Catholic Church, but their international fame grew when they established themselves in Italy and became central to Vatican politics. The House of Borgia produced two popes: Alfonso de Borja, who ruled as Pope Callixtus III (1455–1458), and Rodrigo Lanzol Borgia, who became Pope Alexander VI (1492–1503), along with many other political and religious leaders. The family’s influence peaked in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, with Rodrigo Borgia‘s papacy at the center of church affairs. His children, particularly Cesare and Lucrezia Borgia, became infamous figures in European history. Cesare was a skilled military leader and political strategist, while Lucrezia‘s marriages and rumored scandals, including poisoning allegations, added to the family’s notoriety. The Borgias are often linked to corruption, ambition, and power struggles, and they remain iconic in both historical accounts and fictional portrayals of Renaissance Italy. You can also explore the historical drama The Borgias, starring Jeremy Irons, for more inspiration to explore their origins in Spain.

Borgia in Spain

While the Borgia family is one of the most famous names of the Italian Renaissance, many of the places linked to their Spanish past are considered hidden gems in the Valencia region. So, if you plan a road trip to explore the surroundings of Valencia or consider driving from Valencia to Alicante, you can visit many landmarks connected to the scandalous family, conveniently located along the way to enjoy a complete Borgia route.

The Borgia Route across the Valencia Region

1. The city of Valencia

The city of Valencia should be the first stop while exploring the heritage of Borgia in Spain. However, it was actually the last “Spanish” stop for the Borgia family before they made their way to Italy, where they would become one of the most powerful houses of the 15th century. Here, you should visit the building of the Cortes Valencianas (the former palace of the Borgias) and, of course, the Valencia Cathedral (also known as Saint Mary’s Cathedral). Its Renaissance frescoes, painted by Italian artists Francisco Pagano and Pablo de San Leocadio, were commissioned by Rodrigo Borgia himself, who later became Pope Alexander VI. Interestingly, the Valencia Cathedral is not only famous for its Borgia connection, but it also houses the only Holy Grail (the cup Jesus drank from at the Last Supper) officially recognized by the Catholic Church.

2. Xativa

Xàtiva (or Jativa) is a small town with no more than 30,000 inhabitants, located just 60 km from Valencia. It’s a perfect day-trip destination when exploring the Valencia region in search of Borgia landmarks. In Xàtiva, you can’t miss the birthplace of Pope Alexander VI and the Xàtiva Castle, which during my visit hosted a fascinating exhibition dedicated to the Borgias. The castle is also known for its stunning views and is often included in lists of the top castles in Spain. You can read more about my visit to Xàtiva in this post.

3. Gandia

The Ducal Palace of Gandia is another must-visit stop on the Borgia Route in Spain. This palace was the residence of the Borgia family from 1485 and the birthplace of Saint Francis Borgia, a great-grandson of Pope Alexander VI. The palace itself is a must-see for art lovers, and it is considered an important hidden gem near Valencia. Located in the heart of Gandia, with origins dating back to the 14th century, the palace transports visitors to the prosperous era of the Borgia family. The Ducal Palace of Gandia boasts luxurious decorations and stunning Spanish ceramics. You can read more about my visit to Gandia in this post.

4. Simat de la Valldigna

A lesser-known site related to the Borgia in Spain is the Monastery of Simat de la Valldigna, which is currently undergoing extensive restoration work. This historic site has suffered significant deterioration since its foundation in 1298 and was purchased by local authorities in 1991. Over the past few decades, efforts have been made to slowly restore its former glory. Today, visitors can visit the remains of the church and the surrounding gardens. The monastery is an essential stop on the Borgia Route, as it was once home to Rodrigo Borgia (future Pope Alexander VI), who served as abbot there. The construction of the Capitular Hall (or La Sala Capitular), which began during his time at the monastery, was completed later when his son Cesare became an abbot, following in his father’s footsteps. While it is evident that much work remains to fix the Monastery of Simat, there is something majestic about this place. It must have been significant, given its connection to the careers of the two most famous Borgias. Hopefully, in time, the authorities will complete its full restoration.

5. Canals

The tiny village of Canals was the birthplace of another Borgia pope, Callixtus III. One site you shouldn’t miss here is the Tower of Canals, which was once part of the Borgia palace. Restored in 1995, the tower consists of several levels and basements. In front of it, you’ll find the Ermita de la Santa Cruz (called the Borgia Chapel).

When planning your trip Across the sites connected to the Borgia in Spain, keep in mind that you can’t visit all of the place in one day. Both Xátiva and Gandía are worth a full day trip. Simat de la Valldigna can be visited on the way to Gandía, while Canals is near Xativa.

Map of the Borgia landmarks in Spain

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