Catedral De Sevilla

Catedral de Sevilla Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Seville’s Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Seville Cathedral—Catedral de Sevilla or the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See—stands as a monumental symbol of Gothic architecture, faith, and the complex history of Andalusia. Built on the site of a former mosque, it is the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and the third-largest church overall. Its blend of Christian and Islamic heritage is visible in architectural features like the Giralda tower, originally a minaret, and the tranquil Patio de los Naranjos. Today, the cathedral serves as a vibrant center of worship, art, and culture, drawing millions of visitors annually and anchoring Seville’s UNESCO World Heritage status alongside the Alcázar and Archivo de Indias.

This guide offers a comprehensive overview of Seville Cathedral’s history, key highlights, visiting hours, ticketing options, accessibility, and practical tips for travelers. Whether you wish to marvel at the soaring nave, ascend the Giralda for panoramic views, or explore the cathedral’s chapels and treasures, this resource will help you plan a rewarding visit. For the most current updates, always consult the cathedral’s official website and reputable travel sources (historychronicler.com; worldhistoryjournal.com).

Introduction
Historical Overview
Origins and Construction
Architectural Highlights
Cultural and Religious Significance
UNESCO World Heritage Status
Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
Ticketing and Admission
Dress Code and Visitor Etiquette
Accessibility
Guided Tours and Audio Guides
Facilities and Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Visual Gallery
Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
Sources

Historical Overview

Origins and Construction

The site of Seville Cathedral has a storied past, beginning with the grand Almohad mosque erected in the late 12th century. After the Christian reconquest in 1248, the mosque was consecrated as a church. In 1402, Seville’s leaders initiated the construction of a new Gothic cathedral to demonstrate the city’s prosperity and religious devotion. The cathedral was completed in 1506, incorporating elements of the mosque such as the Giralda tower and the Patio de los Naranjos (lacatedraldesevilla.org; historychronicler.com).

Architectural Highlights

The Giralda: Once a minaret, now a 104-meter (341-foot) bell tower, topped by the bronze El Giraldillo. Its unique ramp system makes the ascent accessible and rewards visitors with panoramic city views (european-traveler.com; Devour Tours).
Patio de los Naranjos: A serene courtyard filled with orange trees, a vestige of the mosque and a peaceful precursor to the cathedral’s interior (Vamos Spanish).
Nave and Altarpiece: The vast nave soars to 42 meters, illuminated by stained glass; the Capilla Mayor houses the world’s largest Gothic altarpiece, gilded in gold and depicting biblical scenes (Espana Guide).
Royal Chapel: Contains the tombs of monarchs Ferdinand III and Alfonso X, reflecting a blend of Gothic and Mudejar styles.
Tomb of Christopher Columbus: Supported by four heraldic figures, symbolizing Spain’s historic kingdoms (Espana Guide).

Cultural and Religious Significance

Seville Cathedral is the ecclesiastical heart of the city and the seat of the archdiocese. It hosts daily worship, major festivals such as Semana Santa (Holy Week), and civic events, maintaining its role as a living center of faith and tradition (worldhistoryjournal.com; historyhit.com). The building’s design is a testament to Seville’s layered history, incorporating Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neo-Gothic elements (catedraldesevilla.es).

UNESCO World Heritage Status

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, together with the Alcázar and Archivo de Indias, the cathedral is recognized for its architectural and historical importance (Vamos Spanish; lacatedraldesevilla.org).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Monday to Saturday: 10:45 AM – 7:30 PM
Sunday: 2:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Closed: January 1, January 6, Good Friday, December 25

Hours may vary on special religious holidays. Always check the official website before your visit.

Ticketing and Admission

General Admission: €11 online, €12 at the ticket office; combined tickets with Giralda may be higher (Nomadic Matt; The Independent)
Reduced Tickets: €5 for students, seniors, and select groups
Free Entry: Children under 14, Seville residents, and at select times (subject to availability, can be crowded) (Trip.com)
Audio Guide: €5 for a device; €4 for the official app
Guided Tours: Starting at €16; rooftop and special tours require advance booking (Indie Traveller)
Skip-the-Line: Highly recommended during peak times (Away to the City)

Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Advance booking is advised.

Dress Code and Visitor Etiquette

Attire: Cover shoulders and knees. No shorts, sleeveless tops, flip-flops, or hats inside (Seville Cathedral Dress Code).
Behavior: Maintain quiet, especially during services. Eating and drinking are not permitted.
Photography: Allowed without flash in most areas, but tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited. Some zones restrict photography during services.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Available in most areas; assistance for Giralda ascent is limited due to the ramp system.
Facilities: Accessible restrooms and benches are provided. Some chapels may have steps or uneven flooring.

Guided Tours and Audio Guides

Audio Guides: Multilingual, available via device or app (Nomadic Matt).
Guided Tours: Offer in-depth insights into history, architecture, and art. Rooftop and maintenance balcony tours provide unique perspectives (Indie Traveller).

Facilities and Nearby Attractions

Restrooms: Near the main entrance and Patio de los Naranjos.
Gift Shop: Sells religious items, books, and souvenirs.
Cloakroom: Limited; large luggage is not allowed.
Nearby Sites: Real Alcázar, Archivo General de Indias, Plaza del Cabildo (Away to the City).

Travel Tips

Best Times: Early mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds and optimal lighting.
Plan Ahead: Allocate at least two hours; allow extra time for the Giralda climb.
Hydration: Bring water, especially in summer.
Combine Visits: Explore adjacent UNESCO sites and local neighborhoods for a full Seville experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the cathedral’s opening hours?
A: Monday to Saturday, 10:45 AM–7:30 PM; Sunday, 2:30 PM–7:30 PM. Closed on select holidays (lacatedraldesevilla.org).

Q: Can I buy tickets on-site?
A: Yes, but online purchase is recommended to avoid queues and secure entry time slots.

Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Yes. Shoulders and knees must be covered; no hats or flip-flops.

Q: Are guided tours and audio guides available?
A: Yes, both are offered in multiple languages, with special tours requiring advance booking.

Q: Is the cathedral accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Most areas are accessible, but the Giralda Tower requires moderate fitness.

Q: Is photography allowed inside?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted except during services or in restricted areas.

Visual Gallery

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Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

Seville Cathedral is a living monument—a place where architectural mastery, faith, and history converge. Its soaring vaults, the iconic Giralda, and the world’s largest Gothic altarpiece offer visitors a journey through the artistic and spiritual heart of Andalusia. Careful planning—respecting the dress code, purchasing tickets in advance, and considering guided tours—will ensure a seamless and memorable visit.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore nearby UNESCO sites and immerse yourself in Seville’s vibrant culture. For up-to-date schedules, events, and tickets, always refer to the cathedral’s official website. Enhance your experience with the Audiala app, and follow us on social media for travel inspiration and updates.