This is the cathedral of cathedrals. Officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See (Catedral de Santa Maria de la Sede), this is one of Spain’s greatest landmarks and definitely someplace every visitor to Seville must see. This cathedral has important religious, cultural, and historical value. So of course, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And it also happens to be the burial place of Christopher Columbus. This cathedral was built on the site of a former mosque and retains the former mosque’s Giralda Tower, now a part of the cathedral. It reminds me a little of the Mezquita in Cordoba, where there is a cathedral built inside the mosque. Here at Seville Cathedral, there is a mosque tower as part of the cathedral.
Our visit to Seville Cathedral
The cathedral really is huge. We had seen it several times before we actually visited it. This is because it is a part of the skyline and can be seen from many viewpoints. It is also in the center of old town, with streets running into it and away from it. It doesn’t really fit into a single view when you are nearby, but we got to see if from many angles. And it stuns from each point. Not only is it large in size, but it is also packed with highlights. It takes a lot more time to visit than other cathedrals even if you just plan to see the main attractions.
Tickets to Seville Cathedral and opening hours
We purchased our tickets on-site without any problem. However, we visited in December, so it wasn’t peak tourist season. If you are visiting during peak season, I would recommend purchasing your tickets in advance online from Seville Cathedral’s official website. You can use timed entry to make sure you can visit when it is most convenient to you and your schedule for the day. To avoid the largest crowds, try to visit the Cathedral when it first opens or in the late afternoon. The Cathedral also offers some really attractive guided tour options including a guided tour of the Cathedral and Giralda Tower, the roofs of the Cathedral, and the stained-glass windows of the Cathedral.
Tips for visitors
- Time of Visit: Plan to visit either early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. This is also helpful in the heat.
- Best Entrance: If you are part of a guided tour or purchased tickets in advance, you might be able to enter through a designated entrance and bypass longer lines. But if you are simply searching for an entrance with the shortest line, check out the Puerta de la Campanilla entrance, or the bell ringer’s door next to the base of the Giralda Tower (northeastern side of cathedral). It is less known to tourists and used by individuals, not groups.
- Duration: Allocate at least 2 hours for your visit to fully appreciate the cathedral’s art, architecture, and history.
- Guided Tours: Consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the cathedral’s history, architecture, and artworks. Several guided tour options, depending on your interests, are available directly from the Seville Cathedral and reasonably priced. Or you can purchase the audioguide with your ticket.
- Dress Code: As a place of worship, visitors are advised to dress respectfully. Visitors are expected to remove hats when entering.
- Respectful Behavior: Minors should be with an adult and running is not allowed in the cathedral. Only guide dogs are permitted. And visitors should avoid talking on their cell phone while visiting. In general, visitors are asked to remain silent as this is still a church where people come to pray and worship.
- Photography: Plan for low light as photography inside the cathedral. It is only allowed without flash and without tripod.
The largest Gothic cathedral in Europe
I previously mentioned that this cathedral is huge! It’s the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe and one of the largest cathedrals in the world. You get a sense of the size from its exterior, but it is when you are inside that you really understand just how big this cathedral is. In addition to its size, it holds so many attractions that visitors are likely to want to see. This makes this cathedral stand out from others. While certainly different from the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican City, I felt it took comparable time to really experience this cathedral. Because there is so much to see and experience here, I would recommend taking the guided tour. I am always hesitant to spend the extra money for a tour, but I believe this is one site (like the Vatican) that is worth it. There is so much culture and history here, that the tour is needed to truly experience its treasures and it will enrich your understanding of everything you see. It’s just too big to fully experience on your own interpretation. But if you can’t do the tour, then definitely take advantage of the audioguide and use my list of must-see sites to guide your visit.
Photo above: The vast exterior of the Seville Cathedral.
Seville Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Seville Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which means it is recognized as having value for humanity. This puts the Seville Cathedral on the same list as other famous places like the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal. Seville Cathedral was recognized in 1987, along with the Royal Alcazar of Seville and the Archivo de Indias of Seville. It’s architectural significance as the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe and third-largest church in the world are important factors. Its invaluable collection of art and altarpieces, which include its main altarpiece considered the most magnificent in all of Christendom. The Cathedral was built as a symbol of Seville’s wealth and power during the Age of Discovery housing the tomb of Christopher Columbus himself. It also has cultural significance as it blends Christian and Islamic elements demonstrating the complex history of Spain.
Photo above: Sacristy Chapel
Photo above: Chapel of Sorrows
Must-see parts of Seville Cathedral
To help you make the most of your visit and time here at the Cathedral, here’s an efficient route that covers the must-see parts of the cathedral. Of course you can always see more, but definitely don’t miss these!
This route starts from the Puerta de la Campanilla or bell ringer’s entrance near the base of the Giralda Tower, to possibly take advantage of shorter lines. However, you could do it in reverse if you enter from the popular Puerta del Principe entrance.
1. The Giralda Tower
Since you’re entering near the base of the Giralda, it makes sense to start your visit by climbing the tower. This will give you panoramic views of Seville, so have your camera ready!
2. Patio de los Naranjos
After descending from the Giralda, explore the Patio de los Naranjos, an expansive courtyard filled with orange trees, which is adjacent to the Puerta de la Campanilla.
3. Christopher Columbus’s Tomb
Moving into the main body of the cathedral, head towards the monument to Christopher Columbus. This tomb, held aloft by four figures representing the kingdoms of Castile, León, Aragon, and Navarre, is a significant historical highlight and a popular attraction inside the Cathedral. Even in the off-season I was fighting crowds to see it and photograph it.
4. The Main Altar (Capilla Mayor)
After viewing Columbus’s tomb, proceed to the Capilla Mayor, the heart of the cathedral, to admire the breathtaking altarpiece, with its intricate cardings and gold leaf, considered one of the largest and most impressive in the world.
5. The Royal Chapel (Capilla Real)
Located near the Main Altar, the Royal Chapel is the next stop. It houses the tombs of King Ferdinand III and his son, Alfonso X.
6. The Chapter House (Sala Capitular)
Continue to the Chapter House, known for its perfect circular shape and stunning artwork, including pieces by Murillo.
7. The Sacristy of the Chalices (Sacristía de los Cálices)
Next, visit the Sacristy of the Chalices, where you can see a collection of precious religious artifacts and artworks, including pieces by Goya. This area also serves as a treasury for the cathedral.
8. Exit through the Door of the Prince (Puerta del Príncipe)
Conclude your visit by exiting through the Puerta del Príncipe on the south side of the cathedral which has impressive Gothic architecture on its facade.
Of course, be sure to take in everything you see along the way. Some things I spotted as I wandered a bit are shown below.
Photo above: A large room inside the Cathedral.
Photo above: One of the many statues inside Seville Cathedral.
Photos above: We wandered upon this quiet little Moorish-styled courtyard while visiting the Seville Cathedral.
Photo above: A view inside the Cathedral showing the natural light illuminating the ceiling through its stained glass windows.
Photo above: A beautiful skylight seen from inside Seville Cathedral.
The Giralda Tower
The Giralda Tower was built as a minaret during the Moorish period in the 12th century for the Great Mosque of Seville. It was converted into a bell tower when the mosque was transformed into a cathedral. The Christians added the belfry in the 16th century to house the bells. The Giralda Tower showcases the blend of Moorish and Christian influences that characterize much of Andalusia!
Climbing the Giralda Tower
Your ticket to the Cathedral usually includes access to Giralda Tower. You access the tower through the Cathedral. Unlike most towers, this one doesn’t have stairs. Instead, you will climb it using 35 gently inclined ramps that are wide enough for guards on horseback to pass. This design provided access for religious officials to do the call for prayer from the minaret. When you reach the tip, you are standing at about 340 feet above Seville, so be prepared for panoramic views of the Cathedral, its streets, and the Alcazar of Seville.
Photo above: A photo I took of the Giralda Tower peaking out at the end of a street filled with restaurants and cafes.
Photo above: Another photo I snapped of the Giralda Tower, standing tall above the orange trees.
The main chapel (Capilla Mayor) and altarpiece
The Main Chapel (Capilla Mayor) and its altarpiece in the Seville Cathedral are must-see attractions at the Cathedral.
The Main Chapel (Capilla Mayor)
The Capilla Mayor, or Main Chapel, sits at the heart of the Cathedral. This area is reserved for the most sacred ceremonies and is architecturally designed to show its importance. The chapel is surrounded by towering Gothic arches that soar upwards, drawing the eye and spirit toward heaven.
The Altarpiece
The altarpiece of the Capilla Mayor is not only the focal point of the chapel but also one of the most impressive examples of Gothic woodcarving in the world. Created by Flemish sculptor Pierre Dancart and his successors, the altarpiece is a masterwork of Late Gothic art. It took over 80 years to complete (1482–1564), hence Dancart’s ” successors.”
The altarpiece is made up of 44 carved scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the Saints, meticulously detailed and richly gilded with gold leaf.
It is considered the largest altarpiece in Christendom, measuring around 20 meters (65 feet) in height and 18 meters (59 feet) in width.
Photo above: The main altarpiece inside Seville Cathedral.
Photo above: A closeup of the main altarpiece at Seville Cathedral.
The many chapels of Seville Cathedral
If you spend just one minute viewing each chapel inside the Seville Cathedral, it will easily take almost 45 minutes. That is because there are over 40 chapels inside the Cathedral. Each chapel is a world unto itself with its own artwork, relics and dedication. The main chapel, is well, a focal point, and perhaps the biggest highlight of them all. But, there are other ones you should see. Like the Royal Chapel (Capilla Real) which is the burial site for King Ferdinand III and his son Alfonso X. There are also chapels dedicated to Saint James, Saint Peter, Saint Teresa, and Saint Anthony, worth a visit. The Chapel of Saint Peter is one of the oldest in the Cathedral, and the Chapel of Saint Anthony includes a painting by Murillo. The Chapel of San Hermenegildo has a beautiful altarpiece, the Chapel of the Virgin of the Antigua is adorned with frescoes, and the Sacristy Chapel functions as the parish church of the cathedral. If you have your family in tow, have everyone choose which is their personal favorite to keep everyone entertained.
Photo above: Chapel of the Virgin of the Antigua
Photo above: The Chapter House of the Seville Cathedral
The tomb of Christopher Columbus inside Seville Cathedral
The tomb of Christopher Columbus inside Seville Cathedral is one of the most historically significant and visited monuments. Columbus, the explorer credited with discovering the Americas in 1492 under support of the Spanish monarchs, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand II, has his final resting place here. This really demonstrates to me the importance of this voyage to Spain.
Columbus’s tomb is an impressive work of art held high by four figures representing the four kingdoms of Spain during Columbus’s life: Castile, León, Aragon, and Navarre. These figures are carrying the explorer’s coffin on their shoulders, symbolizing the national effort behind Columbus’s voyages.
I noticed a sign when I visited that referred to DNA testing confirming these were indeed Columbus’s remains. I thought that was interesting and later looked this up to find there has been historical controversy regarding the final resting place of Columbus’s remains. After his death in 1506, his remains continued to explore the world. After some movement in Spain, to honor his will, his remains were eventually transported to the New World (present-day Dominican Republic). After Spain ceded the territory to France, the remains believed to be Columbus’s were moved to Havana, Cuba, and eventually returned to Seville in 1898 after Cuba’s independence.
In 2006, DNA tests were completed on the bones in the Seville Cathedral and confirmed that at least some of the remains in the tomb are indeed those of Christopher Columbus. However, the Dominican Republic also claims to hold Columbus’s remains in the Columbus Lighthouse in Santo Domingo.
Photo above: The view of Christopher Columbus’ tomb from the right side.
Photo above: The view of Christopher Columbus’ tomb from the left side.
Photo above: The view of Christopher Columbus’ tomb from underneath.
The final resting place of several important people
While Christopher Columbus’s tomb likely attracts the biggest crowds, and is the most famous of those buried here, there are actually other noteworthy characters resting here. King Ferdinand III is buried here, and he is actually considered a Catholic Saint (Saint Ferdinand). He took back much of Andalusia from the Moors in the 13th century. Also buried here are Alonso X of Castile (Alonso the Wise), Pedro I of Castile (Pedro the Cruel or Pedro the Just, depending on your viewpoint at the time), and Catholic Cardinal Juan de Cervantes (15th century).
Photo above: I am not really sure what this is. I saw it and it looked really old. Like an old casket. Anyways, I thought it was interesting and it must’ve been old and important because it was behind glass.
Experiencing the artwork at Seville Cathedral
While the Cathedral is known as an architectural wonder, it also happens to be a treasure trove for art lovers. The collection of art spans centuries and should be impressive as it was collected to reflect Seville’s wealth, power, and religious dedication during its Golden Age. Artistic elements abound everywhere one looks. Look for works by Sevillian artist Murillo in several chapels. But you will also find works from other Spanish and Flemish artists too.
Photo above: El Cristo de la Clemencia, Juan Martinez Montanes (1568-1649)
Photo above: Stunning painted altarpiece inside Seville Cathedral
Photo above: A painting with Christ in the center.
Photo above: Three little cherubs hiding beneath an altarpiece.
The Patio de los Naranjos
Next to the Cathedral is the Patio de los Naranjos, or Courtyard of the Orange Trees. This courtyard is significant because it is a remnant of the mosque that formerly stood here, built by the Almohad. Ritual cleansings were performed in this courtyard before prayers. The courtyard was preserved (despite some modifications) when the mosque was converted into Seville Cathedral. The courtyard is filled with neatly lined orange trees and in the center is a large fountain. It’s kinda neat to think that this space has prompted contemplation and reflection for many centuries before us. So be sure to take in the moment of calm tranquility while you are there.
The choir and organ
While I didn’t snap a photo of it, the choir stalls were created by German and Spanish artists and are sight worthy. They are highly decorated and show the intricate skill of the woodcarvers who made them. I did capture a photo of some of the organ’s pipes. The organ of Seville Cathedral is still used today during masses and religious ceremonies. The Cathedral actually boasts two major organs facing each other across the choir. And they are served by thousands of pipes. The current instruments dates back hundreds of years, as the organ has undergone numerous restorations throughout time.
Guided tours of Seville Cathedral
So, about those guided tours I mentioned earlier. I still have the brochures from my visit.
Here are three tour options:
The Cathedral and Giralda (APPROX. 90 MIN)
This guided tour includes entrance to the Cathedral and Giralda Tower. You will be led by an expert art historian through the Cathedral and then you can visit the Giralda tower and the church of El Salvador at your own pace. The tour covers the Cathedral’s interiors and some places that aren’t open to the public with a general ticket, revealing its history, secrets and evangelizing message.
Roofs of the Cathedral: A journey through time (APPROX. 90 MIN)
This tour includes the cost of the guided roof visit, and includes the entry fee for the Cathedral, Giralda Tower, and the Salvador Church, all of which you can later tour at your own pace. The guided tour tells you about the construction of the Cathedral during the 15th and 16th centuries. You will learn about all the people and trades that collaborated to build this Gothic and Renaissance church. With this tour, you also get to walk through the roofs and passageways of the Cathedral. This provides a unique experience and perspective of the Cathedral itself, and the city below.
The stained-glass windows of Seville Cathedral (APPRX. 90 MIN)
As the name of this tour suggests, you will get to explore the collection of stained-glass windows of the Cathedral by climbing up to the triforium and viewing the windows up close. Your tour guide will help you understand who made these windows, how they were made, and the message each window depicts. In addition to the tour of the stained-glass windows, your tickets include entry to the Cathedral itself, the Giralda Tower and the Church of El Salvador, all of which you can explore at your own pace when the tour ends. Visitors must be age 10 or older for this tour.
You can find more information about these tours, and book them, all on the official Seville Cathedral website. You will choose the language for the tour when you book your ticket and generally the tour is offered in English and Spanish, although some tours are offered in additional languages. Tickets are 20 EUR each (as of February 2024). The tours are offered at specific times and have limited tickets for each slot.
Free tickets to the Cathedral Seville
I found that many places in Spain offer the possibility of a free ticket, which can be great if you are on a tight budget and might not otherwise be able to see all the sights you want to. Seville Cathedral offers 100 free tickets each week, excluding holidays. You must purchase the free ticket online on their official website. As I mentioned, tickets are limited so you might need to keep an eye out for a free ticket well in advance. You might want to email the Cathedral staff for tips on how to get your free tickets, such as when the tickets are released: reservaspatrimonio@catedraldesevilla.es.
Combine nearby attractions with this visit
Seville has lots for visitors to see, with many of its top sites located within close proximity to each other. Here is a list of sites located near the Seville Cathedral, making them ideal to combine with this visit.
1. La Giralda
- Distance: Directly part of the Cathedral.
- Highlights: Former minaret turned into a bell tower; offers panoramic views of the city. Climbing La Giralda provides a unique perspective on Seville and is a must-do when visiting the Cathedral.
2. Real Alcázar of Seville
- Distance: Adjacent to the Cathedral (about a 3-minute walk).
- Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this royal palace is renowned for its stunning Mudéjar architecture, beautiful gardens, and intricate tile work. It’s one of the oldest palaces still in use in the world.
3. Archivo de Indias
- Distance: Across the square from the Cathedral (about a 2-minute walk).
- Highlights: This archive houses invaluable documents illustrating the Spanish Empire’s history in the Americas and the Philippines. The building itself is an example of Spanish Renaissance architecture.
4. Barrio Santa Cruz
- Distance: Surrounding the Cathedral and Alcázar.
- Highlights: The old Jewish quarter of Seville is a charming neighborhood with narrow streets, hidden plazas, traditional Andalusian houses, and plenty of tapas bars. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll to soak in the atmosphere of Seville.
5. Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park
- Distance: About a 20-minute walk from the Cathedral.
- Highlights: The Plaza de España is a semi-circular brick building, Renaissance/Neo-Moorish in style, with a tower at either end. Located in Maria Luisa Park, it’s known for its tiled alcoves representing each province of Spain. The park itself offers a beautiful escape with lush gardens, fountains, and shaded avenues.
Planning a half-day itinerary that includes Seville Cathedral:
- Start Early: Begin your half-day tour by visiting the Seville Cathedral and La Giralda Tower right when it opens to avoid the crowds. This will also give you cooler temperatures during warmer months.
- Real Alcázar: After exploring the Cathedral and climbing La Giralda to get a bird’s-eye view of the city, visit the adjacent Real Alcázar to marvel at its palatial beauty.
- Stroll through Barrio Santa Cruz: Exiting the Alcázar, wander the streets of Barrio Santa Cruz, perhaps grabbing a coffee or tapas as you enjoy the ambiance.
- Finish at Plaza de España: Conclude your tour with a walk to Plaza de España, enjoying the impressive architecture. It’s a bit of a walk, so consider taking a short taxi ride if time, mobility, or heat is a concern. Or if you have the whole day, get lunch after the Alcazar and then visit Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park after lunch. The park and its museums offer some shade if you need it, and both places have fountains to help you cool off.
This itinerary packs in some of Seville’s most iconic sights in a concise timeline, offering a blend of architectural wonders, historical insights, and the charm of Sevillian streets and parks.
Photo above: Casa de Pilatos in Seville.
Photo above: The Royal Alcazar of Seville.
FAQs
Prices vary from free, to 20 EUR with guided tour. Check out the Seville Cathedral website for the most up-to-date price options for you or your group.
The best time to visit is right when it opens or later in the day. This helps you avoid some of the crowd and the heat.
Dress respectfully. This is a church, before it is a museum. So don’t forget to take off your hat when you enter.
Yes, you can take personal photos. But, flash and tripod are not allowed so be prepared to take photos in low light.
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