A Day Exploring Sagunto and the Underground Caves of Saint Joseph in Spain

During our visit to Valencia, Spain, we chose an excursion that combined two very different experiences: exploring the ancient city of Sagunto and taking a boat ride through the underground waterways of the Caves of Saint Joseph.

As we traveled outside Valencia, I was surprised by how much farmland surrounded the city. The region is known for its agriculture, especially its orange groves, rice fields, and vegetable production. It was a reminder that Valencia is much more than a coastal destination—it has a deep connection to the land that surrounds it.

Our first stop was La Vall d’Uixó, home to the Caves of Saint Joseph (Coves de Sant Josep), the longest navigable underground river in Europe. We boarded small boats and traveled through the cave system while our guides navigated the calm underground waters surrounded by impressive rock formations.

Our second stop was in Sagunto where it felt like stepping through layers of history. The city has been inhabited for more than 2,000 years, with influences from the Iberians, Romans, and later civilizations. As we walked the ancient streets, it was fascinating to see modern life existing alongside archaeological remains.

We visited this Roman site (via the Portic and Casa dels Peixos). The discovery of the remains took place in 1991 thanks to the construction work of the two buildings which currently contain the remains in their basements. 

Throughout Sagunto, ancient ruins appear alongside everyday life. Archaeological discoveries have revealed Roman homes, streets, and structures that provide a glimpse into what life was like here nearly 2,000 years ago.

As we made our way toward the Roman theater, we passed a group of students playing on the hillside. I found myself thinking about how different childhood experiences can be around the world. While I grew up seeing children play on grassy fields and lawns, these students had a landscape of ancient stone walls and historic ruins as their playground. It was one of those unexpected moments while traveling that stays with you.

The Roman Theater of Sagunto is one of the city's most impressive reminders of its ancient past. Built in the 1st century AD and carved into the hillside, the theater once held thousands of spectators who gathered to watch performances and public events. Standing among the stone seats and looking out over the stage area, it was easy to imagine the activity that once filled this space nearly 2,000 years ago.

Our day exploring Sagunto and the Caves of Saint Joseph gave us a wonderful glimpse into the history and landscapes surrounding Valencia. From traveling through an underground river to walking among Roman ruins, it was a reminder that some of the most memorable travel experiences come from stepping just beyond the usual tourist stops.