Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar
Basílica del Pilar
The symbol of Zaragoza, with four towers and a multicoloured tiled dome reflected in the Ebro River. It is one of Spain's most important pilgrimage sites to the Virgin Mary.
This Baroque cathedral was built in the 17th and 18th centuries. Inside is the Pilar, the stone pillar on which the Virgin Mary is said to have stood during an apparition. Believers queue to kiss the pillar. The dome has early frescoes by Goya, and in front of the altar two bombs are on display. They fell into the cathedral during the Civil War but did not explode. Entry to the cathedral is free. A lift in the north-west tower takes you to the top for about 5 euros, where you can look out over the old city and the Ebro. The best photo spots are on the opposite bank or from the stone bridge, and the cathedral looks especially beautiful after dark when the lights are on.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:45–20:30 (visits restricted during Mass); tower has separate hours
Nearby sights
- Plaza del Pilar
- La Lonja de Zaragoza
- Goya Museum – Ibercaja Collection
- Caesaraugusta Forum Museum
- Puente de Piedra
- La Seo Cathedral
- Torreón de la Zuda
- Roman Walls of Zaragoza