At this ancient place of worship see a monumental work of architecture housing gorgeous chapels and a museum filled with centuries-old tapestries.
The site occupied by La Seo Cathedral has been a holy place for many centuries. An early Roman temple once stood on this spot. Later a Visigoth church and eventually a mosque occupied the space. Work on the cathedral you see today started in the 12th century. Visit this grandiose building with a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, renaissance and mudéjar. Its vaulted apse, tall tower topped by a cimborio (eight-sided dome) and parroquieta with its beautiful carved wall earned recognition by UNESCO as having outstanding universal value as examples of mudéjar architecture.
Enjoy a self-guided tour of the interior to gain insights into the church’s history and to study the centuries-old religious art. View the altarpiece, which was carved during the 15th century. This magnificent Gothic work depicts scenes from the life of St. Valerius, the patron saint of Zaragoza. Look at the organ, which features pipes that date back to the 15th century.
Investigate the many chapels, some with legends of untimely deaths of their honorees. The renaissance chapel of St. Bernard holds the tomb of archbishop Don Hernando de Aragon and his mother. Look for the chapel of the archangel Michael as well.
Before leaving, explore the Seo Chapterhouse Tapestry Museum, located in the sacristy. Browse Flemish tapestries and religious ornaments that are hundreds of years old.
Find La Seo Cathedral on the Plaza de la Seo in the center of Zaragoza. Arrive by public transportation or taxi. If you prefer to drive, use the nearby metered parking garages. The cathedral and tapestry museum are open daily and admission charges apply, with a small discount for those who are under 18 or over 65 years of age. After your visit, go to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Zaragoza's other cathedral, topped by a large dome and 10 smaller ones. It is less than a 5-minute walk away, along the Ebro River.
