Seville Cathedral & La Giralda
Catedral de Sevilla y La Giralda
The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, where Columbus's tomb is kept. The Giralda, a former mosque minaret turned into a bell tower, is Seville's landmark.
Seville Cathedral was begun in 1401 on the site of the former great mosque and was largely finished by 1506. It is the largest Gothic church in the world and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Highlights include the gilded wooden altarpiece behind the high altar, about 20 metres tall, with more than 1,000 figures carved into it. The tomb of Columbus is carried by four statues representing the kingdoms of Spain. The sacristy and treasury hold paintings by Murillo and Zurbarán. The Patio de los Naranjos (Courtyard of the Orange Trees) keeps the layout of the mosque period. The Giralda was originally the minaret of the 12th-century Almohad mosque. In the 16th century a Renaissance bell tower was added, bringing its height to about 104 metres. Inside are 35 ramps rather than steps, designed so that riders could go up on horseback, so ordinary visitors can reach the top with ease. The view takes in the rooftops of the whole city and the royal palace. Tickets cost about 13 euros and include the climb. Booking online lets you skip the queue. Opening hours differ from Monday to Saturday, and on Sundays the cathedral is open to visitors only in the afternoon. Getting there: it is in the centre of the old town on Avenida de la Constitución, with the T1 tram stop at Archivo de Indias. Notes: clothing must cover shoulders and knees. Some areas are closed during Mass. Rooftop tours (Cubiertas) must be booked separately.
Opening hours
Monday 11:00 AM–3:30 PM; Tuesday–Saturday 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday 2:30–6:00 PM (check website)
Nearby sights
- General Archive of the Indies
- Real Alcázar of Seville
- Barrio de Santa Cruz
- Hospital de los Venerables
- Flamenco Dance Museum
- Church of the Divine Saviour
- Torre del Oro
- Royal Tobacco Factory