For over a thousand years, week after week, this ritual has continued without interruption, making it one of the most surprising traditions you can witness in Valencia today.
Valencia Water Justice Tribunal: Justice Every Thursday
In Valencia, every Thursday for more than one thousand years, justice has been done in public.
Right in front of the doors of Valencia Cathedral, every Thursday at noon, the Tribunal of the Waters—known locally as El Tribunal de las Aguas—comes together. This is widely considered the oldest court in the world still in operation.
The Valencia Justice Tribunal for water was created over a millennium ago to resolve disputes over water usage among farmers in the surrounding agricultural lands. In this region, water was more valuable than gold, and controlling its fair distribution was essential for survival.
Origins of the Valencia Water Tribunal
A Medieval Water Court Still Alive
The origins of the Valencia Water Justice Tribunal date back to the early Middle Ages, likely during Islamic rule in Al-Andalus. At the time, irrigation canals—called acequias—were the lifeblood of the countryside.
As a result, conflicts over water were frequent. Therefore, a fast, fair, and respected system was needed. This is how the ancient water tribunal of Valencia was born.
👉 Learn more about its history here:
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1438/
How the Tribunal of the Waters Works Today
Justice Without Lawyers
Every Thursday, eight judges dressed in black sit in a circle in the open square. Each judge represents one of Valencia’s historic irrigation canals.
One by one, farmers present their cases orally, without lawyers, documents, or written records. Everything is based on spoken testimony, tradition, and collective wisdom.
Then, immediately, the judges deliberate and pronounce a verdict. The decision is final.
In short, justice is delivered instantly, just as it was centuries ago.
Why the Valencia Water Justice Tribunal Is Unique
Recognized by Spain and UNESCO
What makes the Valencia Water Justice Tribunal truly remarkable is that its rulings are still officially recognized by the Spanish state.
Furthermore, in 2009, UNESCO declared it Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, protecting this living ritual that has survived uninterrupted for over ten centuries.
🔗 Official UNESCO description:
https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/tribunal-of-the-waters-of-the-valencian-plain-00171
A City That Stops Every Thursday
A Living Tradition in the Heart of Valencia
Even today, locals and visitors gather every Thursday to witness the ceremony. Sometimes, there are no disputes to resolve, and the judges simply confirm that all is well.
However, the ritual itself still takes place—because tradition matters.
The Valencia Water Justice Tribunal is not a reenactment for tourists; it is a functioning institution embedded in everyday life.
🔗 More about Valencia traditions:
https://www.visitvalencia.com/en/what-to-do-valencia/traditions
From the Past to the Present
An Ancient Justice System That Still Works
Unlike modern courts, this tribunal proves that simplicity, community, and shared values can sustain justice across centuries.
This is precisely why historians, anthropologists, and travelers consider it one of the most fascinating legal traditions in the world.
🔗 Academic overview of medieval water law:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Tribunal-de-las-Aguas
A unique Valencia Justice Tribunal: A Timeless Ritual
The Valencia Water Justice Tribunal stands as a symbol of continuity, fairness, and collective memory. In a rapidly changing world, this ancient court reminds us that some traditions are not meant to disappear.
In the heart of Valencia, every Thursday at noon, history still speaks—and justice is still done.
👉 Follow along to discover the oldest and most incredible traditions still alive in the world.
