As I stepped into the grandeur of Seville Cathedral, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at its sheer size and beauty. With 126 meters of length, 83 of width, and 37 of height, it is the largest church in Spain and the third-largest in the world. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 together with Alcázar and Archivo de Indias, this magnificent structure is undoubtedly one of the most important attractions in Seville.
A Brief History of Seville Cathedral
Seville Cathedral has a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Construction began in 1402 under the orders of King Henry IV, but it wasn’t until the 16th century that the cathedral was completed. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous transformations and renovations, with various architectural styles being incorporated into its design.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Seville Cathedral is its complex history, which reflects the city’s cultural and religious heritage. The construction of the cathedral was influenced by different architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudéjar. The church has been modified over time to accommodate various religious traditions, making it a unique blend of different architectural influences.
Getting There: Where to Find and How to Get
So, how do you get to this magnificent structure? The best way to reach Seville Cathedral is on foot, perhaps during a stroll through the city center, which takes around 7 minutes from the City Hall area. You can also take buses or metro to reach the nearest stop, Garcia de Vinuesa (Avenida Constitución) or Puerta de Jerez.
If you prefer not to walk, there are several transportation options available. The nearest metro station is Puerta de Jerez, which is a short walk from the cathedral. Bus number 21 and 31 also serve the area. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-hailing service.
Orari and Prices: A Guide
Before you plan your visit, it’s essential to know the opening hours and prices. Indicative opening hours are from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Saturday. Closed on December 24, 25, and 31. Mass times are also available, with various chapels offering daily masses.
The ticket price for Seville Cathedral varies depending on the time of year and your age. Adults pay €11.00 for a single ticket, while students and seniors pay €5.00. Children under 15 years old enter free of charge. Guided tours are also available, with prices starting from €20.00.
Best Time to Visit
The best way to avoid queues is to arrive at the entrance before opening hours. For the afternoon, it’s recommended to visit after 3 pm. The cathedral can get very crowded during peak season, so it’s essential to plan your visit accordingly.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. These times offer a more peaceful atmosphere and fewer tourists.
Discounts and Free Admission
There are discounts available for children between 15 and 17 years old, students under 25 years old, and pensioners over 65 years old. Children under 15 years old enjoy free admission. A valuable tip is to combine the tour with Alcázar’s visit.
Additionally, visitors can take advantage of special discounts and packages offered by the cathedral. These include:
- Free Admission: Visitors aged 65+ or students under 25
- Reduced Ticket Price: €5 for adults (Monday-Thursday), €11 for weekends
- Guided Tour: €20 (optional)
- Priority Access: Included in the ticket price (high season)
Tours, Visits, and Online Tickets
For a more personalized experience, consider booking a guided tour with priority access that also includes visiting Alcázar, another must-see attraction in Seville.
Guided tours offer an insider’s perspective on the cathedral’s history, architecture, and significance. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this magnificent structure.
What to See and How to Visit Seville Cathedral
Like all great monuments, the Seville Cathedral should be visited in two ways: externally and internally. For what concerns the exterior, attention is drawn by the Patio de los Naranjos, characterized by 19 arches of different sizes: the largest one serves as an entrance to the garden and bears the name of La Puerta del Perdón.
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
The Patio de los Naranjos
This beautiful patio is a must-see when visiting Seville Cathedral. Characterized by 19 arches of different sizes, it’s a perfect example of Islamic architecture. The largest arch serves as an entrance to the garden and bears the name of La Puerta del Perdón.
The Giralda
Worth noting is the Giralda, a campanile with a perfect mix between Arab architecture and Renaissance style, featuring more striking and fascinating points than the entire structure. The visit to the structure is included in the ticket price.
The Main Facade
Moving on to the main facade of the cathedral, it’s almost impossible not to be struck by the beauty of the three portals: Puerta de la Asunción, Puerta del Nacimiento (or San Miguel) and Puerta del Bautismo, all finely decorated.
Las Gradas
The building is surrounded by so-called las gradas, i.e., steps used in the past by merchants for meetings and commercial transactions. Such an environment is recreated at Christmas with numerous Christmas markets just around the Cathedral.
The Interior of Seville Cathedral
The immense interior of the Cathedral features 5 naves and a total of 25 chapels, including those most important: Capilla Real (Royal Chapel), Capilla Mayor (Main Chapel) and Capilla de San Andrés. Inside the Capilla de San Andrés, you can admire the Christ de la Clemencia, an artwork by Montañés.
The Capilla de San Andrés
Inside the Capilla de San Andrés, you can admire the Christ de la Clemencia, an artwork by Montañés. This beautiful chapel is a must-see when visiting Seville Cathedral.
Tomb of Christopher Columbus
In the transverse area of the church, there is a tomb of Christopher Columbus, visited daily by hundreds of visitors. The coffin is supported by four statues representing the heralds of the four crowns of Spain: Castile, León, Navarre and Aragona.
Conclusion
Seville Cathedral is an exceptional structure in terms of its beauty and size. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful chapels, it’s a must-visit attraction for any traveler to Seville. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to experience the grandeur of this magnificent cathedral, Seville Cathedral has something to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I get to Seville Cathedral?
A: The best way to reach Seville Cathedral is on foot, perhaps during a stroll through the city center, which takes around 7 minutes from the City Hall area. You can also take buses or metro to reach the nearest stop.
Q: What are the opening hours and prices of Seville Cathedral?
A: Indicative opening hours are from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Saturday. Closed on December 24, 25, and 31. Mass times are also available, with various chapels offering daily masses.
Q: Can I visit the cathedral at night?
A: Unfortunately, Seville Cathedral is closed at night. However, you can still explore the surrounding area after dark.
Q: Is there a dress code for visiting Seville Cathedral?
A: No, there is no dress code for visiting Seville Cathedral. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and respectfully.
Q: Can I bring food or drink into the cathedral?
A: No, eating or drinking is not allowed inside the cathedral. However, you can enjoy a meal at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants.
Q: Are there guided tours available for Seville Cathedral?
A: Yes, there are various guided tours available for Seville Cathedral, including priority access and audio guides.
Q: Can I visit Alcázar with my ticket to Seville Cathedral?
A: Unfortunately, no. However, you can purchase a separate ticket to visit Alcázar or book a guided tour that includes both attractions.
Q: Is the tomb of Christopher Columbus open to visitors?
A: Yes, the tomb of Christopher Columbus is open to visitors and offers a fascinating glimpse into history.
Q: Can I take photos inside Seville Cathedral?
A: No flash photography is allowed inside the cathedral. However, you can take photos outside or in designated areas.
