Museums In Valencia: Military History Museum And Playmobil Recreate Famous Battles From History

Valencia’s Military History Museum is partnering with Playmobil to recreate famous battles from history in an exciting new exhibition… 

Valencia has an enviable array of leisurely cultural activities, especially museums in Valencia. From the IVAM to the MUVIM, and the Military History Museum, there is surely something for everyone.

Valencia’s Military History Museum was opened on 12 May 1995. The building itself dates back to 1898. It stood as the headquarters for different units of the military. Architecturally, the museum’s courtyard is what really stands out.

It was used as a headquarters for the army, infantry, quartermaster, and also as a logistics unit. Finally it became a museum in 1995. Its purpose is to develop the public’s knowledge of the Spanish army, and its history. 

The museum is split into four main zones. Heavy artillery is in the sprawling courtyards, which connects to themed halls. Old halls show weaponry and military paraphernalia. And finally one comes to the Valencia And The Army hall. 

The Halls and Courtyards

The many halls and courtyards display a wide range of heavy army equipment. You can find cannons, battle tanks, mortars, army vehicles and horse-drawn carriages. Here, the Soviet battle tank, the T-26, stands out in oppressive grandeur. The T-26 was used during the Spanish Civil War. Also of note is a compressed bronze cannon from 1878. One can also find a collection of munitions and a bomb from the siege of Sagunto of 1811.

In the themed rooms, you’ll find areas which are all about the infantry, cavalry, artillery and engineers. There are also areas for the quartermaster’s office, medics and logistics.

A collection of weapons and artifacts are on also display. These include cannons from the Cuban War, an enigma cypher machine and a complete printing press.

The Upper Floor

A display of military uniforms through the years are on the upper floor. Headware, helmets and badges are on show in this area too. The differing Spanish Flags of military units are also on display in this area of the museum. There sure is a lot to keep you busy on the upper floor.

Through models and dioramas, one can study the evolution of fortifications. The paintings that pave the walls include works by Cusach: The Battle of the Coll de Alpuente, Segrelles, Navarro Llorens and Boluda.

The historical rooms present Spain’s history during the 19th century to the present day. Here you will find info about themes and events, such as the War of Independence and the Carlist Wars. Whereas in the Overseas and Africa room you’ll learn more about Spain’s role in the former colonies. The museum also has a Civil War room. Finally, you will arrive in a room that deals with the current military, and learn about it’s role in international missions. 

In the Halls of Valencia and the Army, the museum displays the relationship between the Valencian Community and its army. 

Playmobil Expo

In a collaboration between the Military History Museum and AESClick (the Spanish association of Playmobil Collectors), fans can enjoy the free Playmobil exhibition in the museum. From 24 February to 10 June, Playmobil and military fanatics can view 11 dioramas and more than 8,000 pieces of Playmobil, reports Valencia Secreta. 

These dioramas recreate historical scenes and battles such as La Batalla de Almansa. Scenes from Valencia’s history, WW2, and scenes from the Afghanistan war will be displayed over 200 square metres. 

You can find the free expo at the Military Museum of Valencia; from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 – 14:00, and from 16:00 – 20:00, and Sundays from 10:00 – 14:00.
• Carrer del General Gil Dolz, 6, Mestalla, 46010 València, Valencia; +34 961 96 62 15; Valencia’s Military History Museum’s website; Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 – 14:00 and 16:00 – 22:00; Sunday from 10:00 – 14:00; Mondays closed; nearest Metro stations Aragon and Alameda

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