If you are planning a trip to Spain, it is a good idea to get to know each of its beautiful cities to make sure you do not miss the chance to explore any of them. One of the most charming cities in Spain is Seville, also known as Sevilla. Spain is often associated with flamenco dancing and costumes and this enchanting art form originated in Seville. Seville has numerous attractions and unique features that attract many visitors and residents every year and among them, Seville Cathedral stands as one of the top highlights of Spain and the best things to do in Seville.
Before traveling to Spain, get to know Seville and its incredible landscapes to make the most of your visit and not miss any of its sights and tourist attractions. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Seville Cathedral, so stay with us.
Seville Cathedral History
The history of Seville Cathedral dates back to the 15th century, but the presence of a Christian place of worship on this site can be traced to the mid-13th century. In 1248, King Ferdinand III of Castile captured Seville from the Almohad rulers and converted their 12th-century Great Mosque into a church.
In 1401, religious leaders decided to transform the damaged mosque, which had suffered significant damage in the 1356 earthquake, into a magnificent cathedral.
According to legend, they dreamed of building a structure so large that future generations would think them crazy for undertaking such an ambitious project. The result of their vision is the awe-inspiring Seville Cathedral we know today, officially named the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See. It is one of the largest churches in the world and a repository of art by famous artists such as Zurbarán, Murillo, and Goya.
Seville Cathedral and La Giralda Tower
The nearby Giralda Tower is an iconic symbol of Seville and a fascinating piece of history. Built-in the 12th century as the minaret of the Almohad Mosque, it was converted into a bell tower during the Christian reconquest.
At 104 meters high, the Giralda combines elements of Islamic and Renaissance architecture, offering a rare glimpse into Seville’s multi-layered history. Instead of stairs, the tower has ramps that allow visitors to easily climb to the top. From there, panoramic views of Seville’s charming streets and squares await, making the climb well worth the effort.
Why is the Cathedral in Seville so Famous?
The Cathedral in Seville is renowned for its incredible size, stunning architecture, and rich history. It is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and one of the biggest Christian churches in existence. Built in the 15th century, the massive structure was designed to showcase the wealth and power of the city.
The cathedral is also home to an intricately carved gold altar, considered one of the finest in existence, and the tomb of Christopher Columbus, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
In addition to its artistic and historical significance, Seville Cathedral stands out for its connection to the city’s cultural and religious heritage. Built on the site of a former mosque, it combines Christian and Moorish architectural elements, reflecting the region’s diverse history.
The iconic Giralda Tower, originally a minaret, is another highlight that adds to its fame and offers visitors a glimpse into Seville’s beauty and past.
Who is Buried at Seville Cathedral?
Seville Cathedral is the burial place of several notable figures, including Christopher Columbus. While it is widely believed that Columbus’ remains are kept in the cathedral, there is ongoing debate about whether the bones are actually his.
After his death in 1506, his remains were moved several times, and DNA testing has shown that they are a match between his bones and those of his brother Diego.
While the mystery has not been completely solved, there is strong evidence to support the idea that Columbus’ remains rest in Seville Cathedral. Other famous people buried there include Ferdinand III of Castile, Elizabeth of Hohenstaufen, Pedro I of Castile, and Alfonso X of Castile.
Seville Cathedral Tour
When visiting Seville Cathedral on a Spain tour, there are many details and highlights to note. Outside the cathedral on Calle de los Alemanes, you will find the Gate of Forgiveness (Puerta del Perdón), one of the few remaining parts of the original mosque.
Inside, treasures from the cathedral’s vast art collection are displayed in the Sala del Pabellón. Many of these works of art, like the rest of the cathedral, are masterpieces from Seville’s Golden Age in the 17th century.
At the northeast corner of the cathedral, you will find the entrance to the Giralda (the former bell tower or minaret). The climb to the top involves climbing 35 steep ramps and a few steps at the end. Your reward is a stunning view, considered one of the most gorgeous views in Spain.
The Giralda, standing 104 meters tall, was built between 1184 and 1198 during the peak of Almohad power. Its distinctive features, dimensions, intricate brick patterns, and how it changes color with the light throughout the day make Seville Cathedral one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in Spain.
Seville Cathedral Rooftop Tour
The Seville Cathedral Rooftop Tour offers visitors a unique perspective of this magnificent landmark. During the tour, you can walk along the cathedral’s roofs and see its stunning architecture up close, including intricate flying buttresses, pinnacles, and gargoyles.
This experience provides a rare opportunity to appreciate the art and design of one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world from a new perspective. As you climb to the roof, you will also enjoy stunning views of Seville, including the Giralda Tower and the surrounding historic district.
Guided tours often include fascinating stories about the cathedral’s construction and history, making it a rich experience for history and architecture lovers. A rooftop tour is a great way to discover hidden details and enjoy unforgettable views from above.
Seville Cathedral Tickets
The tickets to Seville Cathedral are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled, so please make sure your plans are confirmed before purchasing. Guests under 14 must be accompanied by an adult during the visit to ensure their safety and enjoyment.
Various ticket options are available to suit your preferences: The basic Skip-the-Line ticket costs €17, which allows you to bypass the queues and enter the site faster. For a more informative experience, the Skip-the-Line ticket with an audio guide is available for €21.99 and offers a detailed self-guided tour.
If you prefer a more personalized experience, you can opt for the Skip-the-Line ticket with a guided tour for €33, where an expert guide will guide you through the site and provide in-depth knowledge and background.
Seville Cathedral Opening Hours
Seville Cathedral is open daily with visiting hours from 10:45 AM to 7:30 PM on Mondays to Fridays and from 2:30 PM to 7:30 PM on Sundays. The cathedral is closed on January 1 and 6, Good Friday, and December 25.
Visitors typically need about 75 minutes to fully explore the cathedral and La Giralda Tower, although many tourists spend more time there to appreciate the wonderful views and rich history and architecture of this iconic building.
Final Word
Seville Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Seville, Spain, built on the site of a former mosque in the 15th and 16th centuries. This huge and magnificent church is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third largest church in the world, and it is also world famous. Seville Cathedral is rich in history and architecture and houses numerous treasures and works of art, including the tomb of Christopher Columbus, the main chapel’s altarpiece, the Giralda Tower, the Patio de los Naranjos, and the Royal Chapel.
Today, Seville Cathedral remains an active place of worship and an important cultural landmark. It hosts numerous religious ceremonies, including the famous Holy Week processions, which serve as a focal point for the local community and a magnet for tourists from all over the world. If you are planning a trip to Spain, be sure to take some time to explore this magnificent building.
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