No building captures the history of Seville quite like the Seville Cathedral. The Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site tell the story of not just the Cathedral, but of Seville itself. La Giralda, or the bell tower, was originally constructed in 1184 as the minaret of the mosque that previously stood here and was modeled after the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh.Originally topped with four copper spheres this Moorish tower was used both to call the faithful to prayer and as an observatory over the city; however after an earthquake damaged the upper portion of La Giralda was replaced with a Spanish Renaissance style bell tower in 1568.Wandering through Seville’s labyrinthine streets my first encounter with Moorish architecture was La Giralda’s intricate lattices and arches all aglow and I was enchanted.
After the Moors were driven out during the Reconquista, work on a Gothic style cathedral was begun in 1402 with a goal of displaying Seville’s wealth and influence. Starkly different than the intricate Arabic patterns of the La Giralda, the heavy Gothic stonework is no less detailed and just as impressive.More akin to the grand Gothic Cathedrals of Paris and Prague on this section of the cathedral you’ll find spires and reliefs depicting biblical events and dedicated to saints. There are 15 doors on the cathedral’s four facades and each one features a unique relief or carving.
Related: Best Things to Do in Seville
At the time of building a member of the clergy is noted to have commented, “we shall have a church of such a kind that those who see it built will think we were mad.” As the 3rd largest cathedral in the world (after St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome), I believe they may have achieved that goal. With its ceilings soaring at a height of 121 feet the Seville Cathedral actually surpassed both St. Paul’s and St. Peter’s Basilica by volume. The Cathedral is also widely known for the tomb of Christopher Columbus though there is a bit of controversy with a cathedral in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic also laying claim to having the explorer’s remains.
The La Giralda Bell Tower can be accessed from inside the cathedral. Built without stairs, the interior of the tower gently spirals upward with a series of 35 ramps and was wide enough for two men on horseback to pass each other.Those who have braved the 343 ft climb are rewarded with what is undoubtedly the best view in Seville.
Inspired to visit the grand Seville Cathedral yourself? Good. The following information will help you plan your trip. Religious ceremonies and activities can alter visiting hours, be sure to check the website before visiting.
Website
http://www.catedraldesevilla.es/
Hours of Operation
Winter (September to June):
Mondays – 11am to 3.30pm
Tuesdays to Saturdays – 11am to 5pm
Sundays – 2.30pm to 6.30pm
Summer (July & August):
Mondays – 9.30am to 2.30pm
Tuesdays to Saturdays – 9.30am to 4.30pm
Sundays – 2.30pm to 6.30pm
Tickets -Includes both the Cathedral and La Giralda
General ticket: 8 euros
Reduced ticket (Seniors and Students under 26): 3 euros
Free (Born or residing in Sevilla, Children under 16 accompanied by an adult, Disabled and an escort, Unemployed)
For more on Seville
Discover Seville on a Free Walking Tour
Learn All About Authentic Flamenco in Seville.
Five Days in Seville with a Child.
Adelina | PackMeTo says
So completely beautiful! I had a trip planned to Seville, but I had to cancel at the last moment. One day!
Brianna says
I highly recommend Seville. Eating tapas, getting lost in the narrow alleys and taking in an authentic flamenco show, it’s so enchanting!
Marissa says
Such intricate architecture and beautiful scenery. Great shots!
Brianna says
Thanks, its was easy to fall in love with the detailed Moorish patterns and arches. Thanks for stopping by!
Esther says
Oooh, I loved Sevilla when I was there. Would love to go back someday.
Found you through #SundayTraveler
Brianna says
Thanks for stopping by, Sevilla has been one of my favorite cities so far.
Margherita @The Crowded Planet says
Beautiful pics Brianna. I’m planning a trip to Seville in the autumn so this will come in handy! Thanks!
Brianna says
Lucky you! Sevilla definitely has a flavor all its own.
Dave Cole says
Beautiful shots, Brianna! I remember this Cathedral from my first trip to Spain many years ago and had never seen something like it. It’s pretty amazing what all the money from Spain’s American possessions did back on the Iberian Peninsula. Thanks for supplying the visiting info, that will be very useful the next time I’m in Andalucia.
Brianna says
Thanks Dave! Sevilla is quite enchanting and the Cathedral is the city’s centerpiece. Often seeing La Giralda was the only way I could find my way through the maze that is the Barrio de Santa Cruz!
frankaboutcroatia says
The Seville Cathedral is really interesting. I haven’t known the details about Colombo neither the fact that the bell tower doesn’t have a staircase but instead it spirals upward. That’s awesome! I also like the reason behind building it: everybody should think that we were mad! That seems quite reasonable 🙂
Brianna says
Go big or go home, right? The spiraling incline actually made the climb much easier than stairs(though I’ve never shied away from a good climb of anything).
Siobhan says
WOw, that architecture is out of this World. The detail is mind blowing
Brianna says
Can you imagine the time it took to create all that?
SJ @ Chasing the Donkey says
What a place! I have never been to this one, but I’d love to. Those carvings are just so intricate, nothing at all like the churches of today. Big thanks for linking up with us to #SundayTraveler
Brianna says
It really is unique among Europe’s grand cathedrals.
The Brave Dame says
Wonderful photo’s! Sevilla is high on my list!
Brianna says
As it should be, its really such a charming city!
Chanel | Cultural Xplorer says
The Cathedral is stunning both inside and out! Absolutely beautiful! 🙂
Brianna says
It certainly was! It just adds to the enchantment that is Seville.
Jenna says
I regret not making it to Seville when I was in Spain. I love architecture and would love to see this cathedral.
Brianna says
Seville is a great destination for an architecture and culture buff.
Michael Huxley says
Stunning photos! I love architecture and cathedrals in particular, and this was one of my first stops when I reached Seville! Brought back some nice memories, thank you!
Brianna says
Thanks, its easy to take great pictures somewhere as beautiful as Seville
Karen Warren says
I loved Seville and, as you say, the climb up to the top of the cathedral is well worth the effort.
Brianna says
Easily the best view in Seville!
tammyonthemove says
I am usually not a big fan of churches, but this cathedral looks absolutely stunning.
Brianna says
It is even more impressive in person
Christina says
Interesting how many different influences and cultures the Cathedral has to offer. It looks beautiful. I had no clue Christopher Columbus tomb is there.
Brianna says
Seville is where Columbus launched his expeditions to the New World
Devlin @ Marginal Boundaries says
So the clergy there rode horses up their bell tower? I definitely did not see that coming, heh.
Brianna says
I was surprised how spacious the tower was.
Alli says
I really like the richness in your collection of photos here . .. especially the first one! Simply enchanting!
Brianna says
The first one is one of my most favorite photos I’ve taken.
Emily says
Wow, what a cool building! Stunning!
Brianna says
It’s even more impressive in person!
Elena (http://gonewiththebackpack.blogspot.com/ ) says
The Cathedral is really impressive. I remember first time I went to Seville and saw it…And the city itself is pretty beautiful, a bit hot in the summer but everything else is quite nice
Brianna says
I fell in love with Seville and can’t wait to go back
Jessica (Barcelona Blonde) says
I studied abroad in Sevilla for a few months, so I definitely visited the cathedral. I didn’t know it was bigger than St. Paul’s and St. Peter’s by volume though! It’s definitely worth the eight euro entry fee.
Brianna says
It certainly is worth the fee. Did you get to see any of rhe Semana Santa processions?
Joao Sa says
I forgot how beautiful the Cathedral is, went there some years ago. Really great post !
Brianna says
Thanks for stopping by, Seville was definitely one of my favorite spots in Spain
Bente Vold Klausen says
We visited the church many years ago at Easter. The singing gave a great eccho in the church walls and we had a fantastic time. Thanks for bringing up some nice memories again.
Brianna says
I thinking visiting an Easter service here would be amazing.
Laura says
wow it’s absolutely stunning!! That intricate detail – thanks so much for sharing with us 🙂
Brianna says
I was really impressed with the detailing of the Moorish Architecture as well.
The Wandering Wanderluster says
Beautiful pictures! I love churches so I will be sure to make a special visit to this one! Looks stunning!
Brianna says
This one is certainly different from the other grand cathedrals of Europe and is definitely worth a visit.
Surya Bhattacharya says
Wow! I had no idea the number 3 cathedral in the world was SO grand. I’m an architect and this blows my mind. The view is seriously woth the effort to get up there, I think. Now that I know this is the reward, I’d definitely push myself through it!
Brianna says
Once you’re inside the size of the cathedral will definitely take your breath away.
Hannah says
Stunning! Would absolutely love to visit one day. And the sound of the ramps to the top rather than stairs sounds really appealing…especially after climbing up St. Peter’s Basilica last year!
Brianna says
The ramps did make it easier to climb but was still a good workout
Jen Seligmann says
Stunning! I love architecture and I love religious buildings so this is definitely a place that is on my list when I visit Seville in the next few years.
Brianna says
Seville is a great destination for an architecture buff.
Bob R says
Very impressive building and interesting history. It was fun trying to picture men on horseback climbing up the tower. 🙂
Brianna says
I’m curious to know if the horses were claustrophobic or afraid of heights.
Brad Frankel says
I would love to go – dont get me wrong some modern buildings are impressive but in my opinion this is another level of architecture – its beautiful 😉
Brianna says
Especially given the technology of the day
Hitch-Hikers Handbook says
Absolutely stunning photos! There are many awesome cathedrals on the Iberian Peninsula but this one is extraordinary!
Brianna says
I love the Arabic influence throughout the Iberian Peninsula, it lends a very exotic flair to the buildings.
Amy says
What a gorgeous church and beautiful view! I’ll definitely have to add that tower to my list!
Brianna says
It’s even prettier in person, especially at night 🙂
Tracie Howe says
What a cool building! Such intricate and unique details. Love it!
Brianna says
I love the details of the Tower the best 🙂
Jon @ jonistravelling.com says
Great photos! I’ve never been to church for an actual service or anything, but I do like seeing them as a tourist, and this 1 looks awesome!
Brianna says
All the different styles make it a very unique church to go to.
Bianca @itsallbee says
Beautiful, funny how buildings are transformed over the years. There is one in London that has been a church then a synagogue and is now currently a mosque.
Brianna says
Upcycling at its best!
Jempi says
The cathedral of Saint Mary of the Sea! It sure does deserve it’s recognision as a Unesco World Heritage site.
Brianna says
I concur!
Marie-Carmen says
I really like the cathedral bbut to be honest I just love Sevilla in general.
It’s such a charming town!
Brianna says
I wholeheartedly agree!
Lauren says
It is so beautiful! I would love to go there someday. Great photos!
Brianna says
Sevilla is definitely worth a visit.
Sara says
What a beautiful building! I desperately want to visit Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland, from The Da Vinci code, as I’m fascinated by the architecture.
This Girl Loves
Brianna says
That would be a great cathedral to visit, especially after reading the book.
Charles McCool says
Stunning architecture.
Brianna says
It’s even more impressive in person
Cristina Marques says
I have yet to visit Spain but after reading this….I have just added Seville to my itinerary!
Brianna says
Seville is one of my favorite cities, definitely worth a stop!
Marco Zannin says
Wow! I spent one year in Barcelona as erasmus student and visited most of Spain and I definiterly loved Sevilla and the Andalucia region! 🙂 The sensation I had when I visited the Cathedral was: “wow that’s huge: how could the mankind build something like this?”.
Brianna says
Sevilla captured my heart, I will be back!
Veera Bianca / Wanderlust Expert says
Wow, I’m not usually a fan of architecture, but there is something in this!
Brianna says
I’ve become more interested in architecture as it really does tell the story of an area.
Stacey Veikalas says
Oh we LUV Seville! We spent last summer in Spain and a few days in Seville ~ we went by the cathedral but didn’t explore it! Next time we will for sure! What a super post and great facts about the cathedral! Thank you very much for sharing!
Brianna says
I absolutely adore Seville too!
Sand In My Suitcase says
We so want to visit Seville (and explore Spain in depth). Seriously thinking of a long trip next year. And if we do, we’ll try huffing and puffing up those 343 feet of stairs to the top of the cathedral’s bell tower to drink in the Seville views.
Brianna says
I fell in love with Seville and Spain, I’m sure you’ll have a great trip!
Milosz Zak says
I’m a big architecture buff, and I really appreciate that you’ve focussed on a synthesis of styles and cultural influences in this one – we’re often so quick to categorize and move on, but it’s so important to recognize the many streams of thought and visual expression in the things mankind builds, especially between competing civilizational traditions.
Alyson says
Oh wow, that’s stunning! I’ve never been to Seville, looking forward to seeing more of Europe over the next few months as we use London as a base.
Brianna says
Have fun exploring Europe, there is so much to see!
Satu VW / Destination Unknown says
I’ve never been to Seville but would love to go, these were some stunning images!!
Brianna says
I loved Seville, it is so charming and utterly Spanish.
Esther says
It’s been a while since I was in Sevilla, but I remember being mesmerized by the cathedral.
Brianna says
Sevilla is an enchanting city, I’m sure I’ll be back!
Emma says
Totally inspired me to pay it a visit. What an incredible building!
Brianna says
The cathedral is just one of many reasons to visit Sevilla.
Sammi Wanderlustin' says
It’s so beautiful, isn’t it. I really love the view over the orange patio. Gorgeous 🙂 love Seville.
Brianna says
Just one of many reasons to love Seville.
Jess says
I can definitely see why you were enchanted! Those detailed patterns are amazing.
Brianna says
Especially considering they were all done by hand!
Sarah Ebner says
We thought Seville was absolutely gorgeous when we visited – wonderful architecture and history (also true of Cordoba). Lovely pictures here too.
Brianna says
I especially love the Moorish influences the details are just amazing.
Britany says
I find gothic architecture to be so incredibly mesmerizing. I could just stare at that detail forever, trying to imagine the time and labor that must have gone into it.
Andi says
I love Sevilla I visted with my family when we used to live in Madrid. Strangely though the area around the La Giralda Bell Tower looks a lot more crowded than I remember!
James says
Brianna, these are gorgeous! Your photographs took me to Seville for 7 minutes. I seriously want to see the detailed carvings waiting on that 15 doors.
Brianna says
Thanks James, Seville is on of the most visually interesting cities in Europe. So many little details to absorb.
Andrea says
The architecture looks so intricate! European churches can never get boring, there is always something new to discover!
Brianna says
Seville in general is just beautiful
Lauren says
What a fantastic view and a gorgeous building. Such intricate detail! Incredible! Thanks for linking up with #WeekendWanderlust! 🙂
Go discovery travel and tours says
wow . it is very amazing information
Els says
Sevilla is a wonderful place! I especially loved the Triana district!
Royal says
Carved high in the bell tower are a letters. I believe they may be carved into all 4 sides of the tower. The ones I saw do not appear to be Spanish, Latin or Roman numerals (TVRRS I believe) what are they?
Brianna says
I have no idea but if I find out I’ll be sure to let you know!
Carl says
Great info. Lucky me I discovered your website by accident (stumbleupon).
I’ve saved as a favorite for later!
Maydi says
Gorgeous pictures! An overall very informative blog.
Brianna says
Thanks Maydi, I’m glad you enjoy it! Any travels coming up?
Cairotour says
Thanks for you information
Natasha says
This is simply stunning. It reminds me a lot of the architecture I saw in Barcelona. So intricate and interesting
Bisoman says
I like the information