Iglesia de San Pedro
A beautifully restored 15th-century church in Gijón, featuring striking modern mosaics and a unique blend of architectural styles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Great light for photos
Iglesia de San Pedro
Best Time
Great light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored 15th-century church in Gijón, featuring striking modern mosaics and a unique blend of architectural styles.
"A charming seaside church with stunning architecture and serene atmosphere."
📸 Capture the Mosaics
The modern mosaics in the side chapel are a highlight. Visit early evening for the best light. :iphone:
🚶 Explore the Neighborhood
Combine your visit with a walk along San Lorenzo Beach and through the charming Cimadevilla old town. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mosaics by Marko Ivan Rupnik
Side Chapel
Discover 200 sqm of stunning, modern mosaics depicting various scenes, including ships. A truly unique artistic treasure.
Architectural Fusion
Exterior and Interior
Admire the historicist style blending Romanesque, Pre-Romanesque, Gothic, and Neoclassical elements in its facade and columns.
Coastal Location Views
Campo Valdés
Enjoy exceptional sea views from its privileged spot at the western end of San Lorenzo Beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Understanding Its Rich History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Mosaics
The modern mosaics in the side chapel are a highlight. Visit early evening for the best light. :iphone:
🚶 Explore the Neighborhood
Combine your visit with a walk along San Lorenzo Beach and through the charming Cimadevilla old town. :athletic_shoe:
🎶 Acoustics for Music
The church's acoustics are remarkable, making it a venue for choral music concerts. Check local listings! :musical_score:
🗝️ Discover Stone Keys
Look out for the numerous stone keys around the church, adding a unique detail to its exterior. :key:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Mosaics
The modern mosaics in the side chapel are a highlight. Visit early evening for the best light. :iphone:
🚶 Explore the Neighborhood
Combine your visit with a walk along San Lorenzo Beach and through the charming Cimadevilla old town. :athletic_shoe:
🎶 Acoustics for Music
The church's acoustics are remarkable, making it a venue for choral music concerts. Check local listings! :musical_score:
🗝️ Discover Stone Keys
Look out for the numerous stone keys around the church, adding a unique detail to its exterior. :key:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Iglesia de San Pedro for its stunning modern mosaics and unique architectural blend, offering a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful sea views. While the church's history of reconstruction is noted, its artistic treasures and prime location make it a highly recommended spot in Gijón.
"Interesting small church to visit. The church has a large number of mosaics, some older and some modern with different scenes. The ones of the ships is interesting to see inside the church.
We visited early evening in a Sunday. There is great light in the church for photos. It was not too busy inside."
Simon Round
"A beautiful coastal city with a perfect mix of beaches, history, and vibrant local culture. Ideal for peaceful walks, seafood lovers, and sunset views.
Church in Gijón (e.g., San Pedro Church)
Charming seaside church with stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. A must-visit spot for history buffs and photographers alike."
VISHNU M R
"The Church of San Pedro is one of the most emblematic buildings in Gijón. It is located in Campo Valdés, at the western end of San Lorenzo Beach and at the foot of the Cimadevilla neighborhood. Its privileged location offers exceptional sea views and makes it a landmark for both locals and visitors.
The original church was built in the 15th century by master stonemason Lucas Bernaldo de la Quintana, in the Gothic style, although over time many renovations were added that altered its original appearance. It was the only parish church in Gijón until 1893.
During the Spanish Civil War, the building was destroyed and later rebuilt between 1945 and 1955 according to a project by architects Francisco and Federico Somolinos. The current church features a historicist style inspired by Asturian Romanesque and Pre-Romanesque, but also incorporates neoclassical and Gothic elements, giving it a unique character. It stands out for its symmetrical façade, topped by a central tower, and its portico and circular columns inside.
Inside, in addition to its vaults and columns, the use of space and the acoustics are remarkable, making it ideal for choral music concerts. The side of the church is very peculiar for its shape and color, and in the adjoining courtyard, you can find the cross that presided over the ruins after the destruction and the first stone laid for the reconstruction.
One of the most surprising treasures of the church is the side chapel, formerly closed and now open to the public, adorned with 200 square meters of mosaics by the artist Marko Ivan Rupnik, installed in 2012. These mosaics, together with the tranquil atmosphere and the history of the place, make the Church of San Pedro a must-visit in Gijón."
Manuel Gonzalez Vazquez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Iglesia de San Pedro is conveniently located in Campo Valdés, at the western end of San Lorenzo Beach, bordering the Cimadevilla neighborhood. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the old town or beach. Public transport options are available within Gijón, with bus stops near the beach area.
Parking can be challenging in the popular beach and old town areas. There are paid parking lots nearby, but it's often easier to walk or use public transport if you're staying in the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main church area is generally free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and atmosphere. However, access to specific chapels or events might require a ticket or donation.
Opening hours can vary, but the church is typically open during daylight hours, especially on weekends. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire nearby for the most up-to-date times, particularly if you plan to visit a specific chapel or attend a service.
While efforts are made to maintain accessibility, older buildings can present challenges. The main areas are generally accessible, but it's recommended to contact the church directly for specific information regarding ramps or elevator access to all sections.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted for personal use inside the church, but it's always respectful to avoid flash photography, especially during services. The early evening light is particularly good for capturing the mosaics and interior details.
The side chapel with the modern mosaics offers unique photographic opportunities. The exterior facade, especially with the sea as a backdrop, and the bell tower are also excellent for capturing the church's presence.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The original church was built in the 15th century but was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War. The current building was reconstructed between 1945 and 1955 in a historicist style, incorporating various architectural influences.
The church features a historicist style inspired by Asturian Romanesque and Pre-Romanesque, but also incorporates neoclassical and Gothic elements, giving it a distinctive and unique character.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the church itself is a place of quiet reflection, its proximity to open spaces like the beach makes it a good stop for families. Consider visiting during less crowded times to ensure a more comfortable experience for younger children. The unique architectural elements might also spark curiosity about history and art.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to photograph the church from its seaside vantage point at Campo Valdés, offering stunning views with the ocean as a backdrop. The bell tower and the unique shape of the church's side also provide interesting compositional elements. Remember to be respectful of any ongoing services when taking photos inside.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mosaics of Marko Ivan Rupnik
The mosaics are a significant draw for visitors, offering a unique visual experience that contrasts with the church's older architectural elements. Their intricate details and powerful storytelling make them a focal point for both art enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper connection with the church's spiritual and artistic narrative. The combination of ancient architecture and modern art creates a truly memorable visit.
Visitors often express surprise and delight at the scale and beauty of these mosaics. They are a testament to the ongoing artistic life of the church and provide a compelling reason to explore beyond the main nave. The tranquil atmosphere within the church, coupled with these stunning mosaics, makes it a highly recommended stop for anyone visiting Gijón.
Architectural Journey Through Time
The current church, designed by architects Francisco and Federico Somolinos, presents a unique historicist style. It draws inspiration from the Asturian Romanesque and Pre-Romanesque periods, but also skillfully integrates neoclassical and Gothic elements. This blend results in a distinctive facade, characterized by its symmetry and a prominent central tower, as well as an interior featuring a portico and circular columns.
Beyond the main structure, the church's side is noted for its peculiar shape and color. In the adjoining courtyard, visitors can find the cross that stood amidst the ruins after the destruction and the first stone laid for the reconstruction. This layered architectural narrative offers a rich experience for those interested in history and design.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit