The Catedral-Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar) is an awe-inspiring basilica that has roots that go back to the dawn of Christianity in Spain. Revel in the grandeur of this ornate basilica, which stands on one of the country’s most significant spiritual sites. Admire the basilica’s breathtaking architecture and explore the collections of artworks displayed within.
According to ancient tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared before St. James to encourage the apostle to teach the gospel in Spain and build a chapel. Since then, ever-grander chapels, churches and cathedrals have been constructed on this site. The Baroque beauty that stands here today was commissioned by Charles II King of Spain in 1681 and completed in 1754. Stand in front of the immense façade and take in the elaborate detail on its many towers and turrets. A large central dome rises up above the 10 smaller domes, each with pretty blue, green, white and yellow tiles.
Walk inside and check out the church’s cavernous interior. The large vaulted nave is flanked by 12 immense pillars and a series of small chapels dedicated to saints. A large circular window illuminates the magnificent alabaster altarpiece and the frescoes within the dome. Look up to see the stunning fresco depicting The Queen of the Martyrs by Francisco Goya. The holy pillar itself is concealed behind the Capilla Santa, but you can see queues of devotees lining up to kiss an exposed section of the relic. You can also see two of the bombshells that were dropped on the basilica during the Spanish Civil War, but failed to detonate.
Ride the elevator most of the way up the north tower and complete the journey to the top via the stairway. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city across the basilica’s soaring spires.
The Catedral-Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is located in Zaragoza’s historic heart. It is open to visitors daily, except for Sundays. Visit the cathedral for free and pay a small charge to access the tower. For a fantastic view of the church, admire it from the footbridge that crosses the Ebro River.
