A bird-like figure from an aerial view and a track that will seldom leave the waterside; Valencia's street circuit is all set to be the latest blockbuster at the Formula 1 box office.

A seven-year deal has been struck for hosting the Grand Prix of Europe. The newest street circuit, with safety measures as good as any, has generated a lot of curiosity. While 14 right-hand curves and 11 left-handers will provide drivers with a challenge as well as overtaking opportunities, 26 grandstands will ensure huge spectator attendance.

The 5.473km circuit built in the Grao area on the inner docks of the harbour will see average speeds above 200kph over 56 laps. The Juan Carlos I Marina around which the track has been built was the base for last year's Americas Cup. The street circuit has been specially prepared and will not have manholes but will have a drainage system similar to other streets.

The cars will also race through the area undergoing expansion from the main city. The track throughout has a minimum width of 12 metres and has two shoulders of asphalt, while the start straight and the pit garages are in the stalls of the port. But the biggest attraction is the swing bridge - built specially for the circuit - where the cars will cross Valencia’s canal.

From the edge of the quay, the cars will pass through the historic fish market, then out through the gates of the shipyard (the Astilleros) and then enter Grao suburb. Here the track is along the old bed of the River Turia. A 180 degree hairpin then requires heavy braking and then though the numerous S-bends the cars reach the start straight.

The race, even though on a street circuit, will cause only minimal disruption to the local population. Valmore Sports, the company that will look after the assembly and disassembly of the track, also manage the rights of the Grand Prix and are committed to keep the race a zero-cost venture for the city.