Flamenco dancing and paella are just two of the many things that Spain is known for. Spain has a rich Catholic heritage, and several of the country’s churches are among the best in the world. Whether you’re religious or not, your next trip to Spain should include a few stops at some of the country’s most beautiful and historically significant religious institutions. This list includes the best churches in Spain, as well as what distinguishes each one.
1: Sagrada Familia
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The Sagrada Familia is without a doubt Barcelona’s most well-known church, thanks in part to its architect, Antoni Gaudi. This cathedral, which began building in 1882 and is nearing completion, is still under construction. The Sagrada Familia, unlike many other traditional Spanish churches, is designed in the Art Nouveau style. Today, the Sagrada Familia is one of Barcelona’s most prominent tourist sites, and it is open to the public for tours and religious services.
2: Seville Cathedral
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Seville Cathedral, commonly known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary by the Sea, is a magnificent Gothic masterpiece that is also the world’s largest cathedral. The cathedral, which was built in the 16th century and is located in the heart of Seville, is large and spreading. Seville Cathedral is worth a visit not only for its beautiful spires and ornamentation, but also because it is the ultimate resting place of legendary explorer Christopher Columbus.
3:Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor
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The majestic Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor, also known as the Expiatory Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is located on Mount Tibidabo in Barcelona. This is one of Spain’s younger cathedrals, having been dedicated only in the 1950s after a lengthy construction period. The Romanesque-style church is composed of stone, but there are lots of ornamentation and neo-Gothic details to admire as well.
4: Burgos Cathedral
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Despite the fact that the Burgos Cathedral was begun in the 13th century, it was not finished until the 16th century. However, the lengthy construction and planning process was well worth the wait, as the end product is a spectacular Gothic cathedral. Burgos Cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, has distinctive octagonal spires that distinguish it different from most other Gothic buildings in Europe. The facade and hundreds of statues of saints and Biblical figures can be admired from the outside.
5: Segovia Cathedral
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Segovia Cathedral was the last Gothic-style cathedral erected in Spain. The church’s construction began in the 16th century, following the architect Juan Gil de Hontaón’s plans. The cathedral is situated in the heart of Segovia’s Plaza Mayor, making it an important component of the city’s history and identity. The church has three great vaults and entrances, but the centrepiece is the amazing altarpiece constructed of bronze and marble from the 18th century.
6: Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar
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The Virgin Mary is supposed to have appeared to the Apostle James while he was praying by the Ebro River in Zaragoza, according to Spanish tradition. As a result, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar has long been regarded as a historically significant monument, venerated throughout Spain and the Christian faith. The basilica’s architecture is a mix of rococo, Baroque, and neoclassical styles, and the interior has a massive collection of paintings by Francisco Goya.
7: Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
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The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is situated on a historically significant site. According to legend, angels delivered the Apostle James’ remains to the spot, and a hermit discovered the burial site in the ninth century. A tiny chapel was built to commemorate the location, and by the 11th century, a huge cathedral had been completed. The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is notable for its Romanesque architecture, and it has served as the traditional terminus of the Way of St. James pilgrimage since the Middle Ages.
8: Santa Maria la Real de Covadonga
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The Basilica de Santa Maria la Real de Covadonga is definitely a one-of-a-kind and spectacular monument, resembling a palace from a fairy tale rather than an ordinary church. The neo-Romanesque cathedral was completed at the end of the nineteenth century and is fully pink due to the natural colour of the limestone used in its construction. The Basilica of Santa Maria la Real de Covadonga, with its twin spires and beautiful hills in the background, is a must-see location in Spain.
9: Malaga Cathedral
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The Malaga Cathedral was built during the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, employing Renaissance plans to build what is today the city’s centre point. The cathedral, which was once housed within the Moorish walls of Malaga, is home to an incredible art collection. Admire stone medallions, a massive Gothic altarpiece, and innumerable sculptures and paintings as you enter through the Baroque facade, which is distinct from the remainder of the church. The congregation spent its assets to support the United States in its battle against the British in the 18th century, hence the south tower is still unfinished.
10: Avila Cathedral
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Avila Cathedral differs from the other religious constructions on this list in that it also served as a fortress. The church’s construction began in the 11th century, with one of the city walls’ turrets acting as the apse. It is the first example of Gothic architecture in Spain, with major influences from French cathedrals built in the preceding years. The cathedral is a gorgeous site and a photo-worthy attraction because it is still connected to the walls that surround Avila.
