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I'm Amadeo Pérez, and today I want to talk to you about one of the places that has marked me the most throughout my life: the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía in Valencia. Why do I feel so connected to this building? Because I have been lucky enough to visit it, attend countless events in its impressive halls and, above all, witness how this space has evolved to become a fundamental pillar of art and culture in Spain. So hold on, because I'm going to tell you everything you need to know about this monument and why, if you are an art lover, this place will blow your mind. What is the Palau de les Arts? The Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia is much more than just a beautiful building. It is the home of opera and performing arts in Valencia. Since its inauguration in 2005, it has been a symbol of the city's architectural and cultural avant-garde. Designed by the famous Santiago Calatrava, it is part of the City of Arts and Sciences, another of the highlights of the city. You know that feeling of being in a place that seems to be taken from the future? Well, that's what you feel when you stand in front of this marvel. The first thing that strikes you is its unique structure. We are not talking about just any building. Here we are in front of a work of art in itself. With its 230 meters long and 70 meters high, it looks like a gigantic spaceship hull about to take off into the cosmos. If you haven't seen pictures, I invite you to look for them, because words don't do it justice. An architectural icon This place is not only aesthetically imposing, it is also designed to offer a unique acoustic experience. The Palau houses several spaces dedicated to different types of performances: the Main Hall, the Auditorium, the Chamber Hall and the Martín y Soler Theater. Each of these halls is specifically designed to offer the best possible sound and visual experience. In fact, the Main Hall is famous for its acoustics, and it is no coincidence that many of the best opera productions are performed here. Calatrava designed this building with the idea of it being a meeting point for art lovers. Not only can you enjoy opera or classical music concerts, you can also lose yourself in its landscaped terraces, stroll through its gardens or relax in one of its cafes. Even if you are not interested in a particular show, the simple fact of walking around is an incredible experience. My relationship with the Palau de les Arts For me, the Palau de les Arts is much more than a cultural space. It is a place that has transformed the artistic life of Valencia and, why not say it, it has also had an important impact on my life. The first time I set foot in the Palau, back in 2008, I was speechless. I remember perfectly well having attended an opera performance that, honestly, changed my way of seeing art. The most impressive thing was the staging. The building has state-of-the-art technology that allows for true wonders on stage. From the way the sets move, to the lighting that immerses you completely in the story, everything is designed to give you a unique experience. And you know what the best part of it all is? The Palau is not just for opera lovers. You can also enjoy symphonic music concerts, ballet and even flamenco shows. There is something for everyone! Why should you visit the Palau de les Arts? Look, if you are one of those who think that opera is boring or elitist, let me tell you something: this place will change your mind. I say this with total certainty, because I have seen many people who, like me, were not great connoisseurs of opera and ended up falling in love with this art after attending a couple of performances at the Palau. In addition, the artistic offer is brutal. You can find from classic operas like La Traviata or Carmen, to more modern and innovative proposals. They even have a program called "Les Arts Volant", where they take opera to different places in the Valencian Community. So you have no excuse not to give it a try. Best of all? Tickets are not as expensive as you might imagine. Although it is true that for some events the prices can be high, there are also many affordable options. And if you are under 28 years old, the Palau has discounts that will make you not think twice. The impact on the city of Valencia I can't talk about the Palau de les Arts without mentioning the impact it has had on the city of Valencia. Before it was inaugurated, this city was not so present in the international panorama of the performing arts. Today, thanks to this space, Valencia is a world reference in the world of opera and other performing arts. Every year, the Palau attracts thousands of tourists who come not only for the beauty of the building, but also for the quality of the shows. This has generated a positive economic impact on the city, as well as positioning it as a first-class cultural destination.

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