Sant Martí Sacosta Church - Church
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Sant Martí Sacosta Church

4.5
·93 reviews·Girona, Spain

A stunning baroque staircase leads to a historic church in Girona's charming old town, offering cinematic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds for photos

CrowdLow
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Sant Martí Sacosta Church - Church

Sant Martí Sacosta Church

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning baroque staircase leads to a historic church in Girona's charming old town, offering cinematic views.

4.5
(93 reviews)

"My favorite place in Girona. For me the feeling I got here is more than what I felt in the majestic Catedral."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear comfy shoes

Those baroque stairs are steep! Good footwear is a must for exploring the area.

📸 Perfect photo spot

The stairs and church offer cinematic views, great for photographers.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baroque Staircase

Baroque Staircase

Leading to Sant Martí Sacosta Church

Grand baroque stairs create a dramatic entrance, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Sant Martí Sacosta Church

Sant Martí Sacosta Church

Barri Vell (Old Town)

A historic church with a unique atmosphere, once a convent and seminary.

Casa Palacio Agullana

Casa Palacio Agullana

Adjacent to the church

A striking 16th-17th century palace with a distinctive covered archway.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Stairs

Prepare for a climb! The iconic baroque staircase leading to Sant Martí Sacosta Church is a highlight, but it's steep. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time to soak in the atmosphere. It's a popular photo spot, so early mornings or late afternoons can offer fewer crowds.

Beyond the Church

While the church is a draw, the surrounding Barri Vell (Old Town) is a treasure trove. Explore the narrow medieval streets, discover hidden plazas, and imagine yourself in historical dramas. The area around the church is particularly picturesque and often featured in films.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
During Spring Festivals
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia visited the village of Sant Martí Vell with young people from the Princess Girona Foundation programs on July 24, 2025, in Girona, Spain. The King and Queen joined them later. 🇪🇸 #KingFelipeVI #KingFelipe #ReyFelipeVI #ReyFelipe #QueenLetizia #ReinaLetizia #PrincessLeonor #PrincesaLeonor #PrincessofAsturias #PrincesadeAsturias #PrincessofGirona #PrincesadeGirona #...
@royalsofeurope_
11.6K likes • 228.1K views

👟 Wear comfy shoes

Those baroque stairs are steep! Good footwear is a must for exploring the area. Instagram+1

📸 Perfect photo spot

The stairs and church offer cinematic views, great for photographers. Instagram+1

Estamos en 📍Sant Martí Vell donde visitarán diversos inmuebles restaurados por la diseñadora de joyas y filántropa italiana Elsa Peretti ✨. #princesa #infantasofia #princesaleonor
@tourprincesagirona
11.3K likes • 117.6K views
Iglesia de San Martín. Girona. Acuarela sobre papel Saunders Waterford 300 gsm, 51x36 cm. #acuarela #watercolor #watercolour #watercolorpainting #watercolorart #aquarelle #pintura #painting #dibujo #draw #drawing #arte #art #artwork #artforsale #watercolour_gallery #top_watercolor #watercolor_planet #watercolor_inlove #watercolor_daily #stcmill #danielsmith #danielsmithartistsmaterials #escodabrus...
acuarelascarmenalvarez
437 likes • 0 views

🎬 Film location vibes

This spot has been used in movies and dramas, adding to its charm. Instagram+1

☕ Cafe nearby

Enjoy a coffee with a view, even with people around. Reddit

Escaleras barrocas que llevan a la iglesia Sant Marti Sacosta (antiguo convento del siglo XVII) y a la Casa Palacio Agullana Siglo XVI-XVII) cuyo gran arco cubierto y oblicuo constituye una de las imágenes más singulares de la ciudad. #asi_es_espana #asi_es_catalunya #instantes_fotograficos #spain_passion #spain_all_pics #fever_spain #fever_euskadi #fever_cat #total_spain #total_mediterranean #...
ebaesther2
178 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear comfy shoes

Those baroque stairs are steep! Good footwear is a must for exploring the area. Instagram+1

📸 Perfect photo spot

The stairs and church offer cinematic views, great for photographers. Instagram+1

🎬 Film location vibes

This spot has been used in movies and dramas, adding to its charm. Instagram+1

☕ Cafe nearby

Enjoy a coffee with a view, even with people around. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(93 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Sant Martí Sacosta Church and its iconic baroque staircase as a favorite spot in Girona, often evoking a feeling more profound than other major landmarks. Its classic beauty and cinematic atmosphere are frequently highlighted, making it a must-visit for its picturesque qualities and historical charm.

"My favorite place in Girona. For me the feeling I got here is more than what I felt in the majestic Catedral. A Filipino movie was set here in Catalunya and this was the location of one scene and it brought me to that scene despite the people at the cafe."

Stevenson Que

"one of the highlights of the medieval center of Gerona"

Torsten Burandt

"It’s beautiful and classic! I saw these kids taking their time drawing this spectacular place."

Jessy Q.

What People Like

Iconic baroque staircase
Cinematic atmosphere
Classic beauty

What People Dislike

Steep stairs for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sant Martí Sacosta Church is located in the Barri Vell (Old Town) of Girona. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center. If you're arriving by car, be aware that parking in the old town can be challenging, and it's best to use public parking garages outside the immediate vicinity. Reddit

Yes, the church is a prominent feature of Girona's historic Barri Vell, making it a central point for exploration. Instagram+1

Access to the immediate area around the church in the old town is restricted for vehicles. It's recommended to park in designated parking lots and walk. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the church and the exterior staircase is generally free, as it's a public space and a significant part of the historic cityscape. Instagram+1

As the church is part of the historic fabric, its exterior is always accessible. Specific interior visiting hours may vary, but it's primarily admired from the outside. Instagram

No, the iconic baroque staircase leading to the church is a public thoroughfare and does not require a ticket for access. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo spot is undoubtedly the grand baroque staircase leading up to the church. The unique architecture of Casa Palacio Agullana with its covered archway is also highly photogenic. Instagram+2

For fewer crowds and softer light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The 'golden hour' can create a magical atmosphere on the stairs. TikTok

Generally, photography of the exterior is welcomed and encouraged, as it's a popular landmark. Be mindful of any posted signs if you plan to photograph the interior. Instagram

Many visitors find the medieval atmosphere and dramatic staircase reminiscent of fantasy settings, with one user specifically mentioning a 'Game of Thrones' vibe. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

Originally a convent dating back to the 17th century, Sant Martí Sacosta later served as a seminary. Its architecture reflects various periods, with the baroque staircase being a notable feature. Instagram+1

The church and its approach are most famous for their striking baroque staircase. The adjacent Casa Palacio Agullana also showcases Renaissance and Baroque elements. Instagram+1

While the Barri Vell of Girona is a significant historic area, Sant Martí Sacosta Church itself is not individually listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, but it contributes to the overall historical value of the city. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the steep baroque stairs might be a bit challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, the area around Sant Martí Sacosta Church offers a glimpse into medieval Girona that can spark imagination. Encourage kids to imagine knights and princesses as you explore the old town's narrow streets. The visual drama of the staircase itself can be exciting for older children. Instagram+1

Consider making it part of a larger exploration of Girona's historic center. The nearby cafes offer a chance for a break, and the overall atmosphere of the Barri Vell can be an engaging experience for the whole family. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for everyone! Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Sant Martí Sacosta is a goldmine for photographers. The baroque staircase is the undisputed star, offering dramatic leading lines and a sense of grandeur. Experiment with different angles, from the base looking up to the top looking down. The adjacent Casa Palacio Agullana, with its unique covered arch, provides another compelling subject. Instagram+2

For the best light and fewer people, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The 'golden hour' can cast a beautiful glow on the stone steps and historic buildings. Consider incorporating the surrounding medieval streets for a more comprehensive portfolio of Girona's charm. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Baroque Staircase

The most visually arresting feature of Sant Martí Sacosta is its grand baroque staircase. These steep, wide steps ascend dramatically, creating a powerful visual statement. The design is not just about aesthetics; it's a testament to the architectural styles prevalent during its construction, offering a unique pathway to the church and the adjacent palace. Many visitors find this staircase to be a highlight, providing a sense of stepping back in time. Instagram+1

This staircase is a photographer's dream, offering numerous angles and perspectives. The interplay of light and shadow on the stone, combined with the surrounding medieval architecture, creates a cinematic feel. It's no wonder that this spot has been recognized for its picturesque qualities and even used as a filming location. Instagram+2

When visiting, take your time to ascend and descend, appreciating the craftsmanship. It's also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to pause, perhaps enjoy a coffee from a nearby cafe, and simply absorb the historic ambiance. Reddit

Sant Martí Sacosta: A Place of History and Culture

Sant Martí Sacosta is more than just a church; it's a historical complex that has served multiple purposes throughout the centuries. Originally established as a convent, it later transitioned into a seminary, reflecting its significance in the religious and educational landscape of Girona. This layered history contributes to the unique character of the site. Instagram

The area is also recognized for its cinematic appeal. Its evocative medieval setting and striking architectural elements have made it a sought-after location for film and television productions. This association adds another layer of intrigue for visitors, allowing them to connect with the site through popular culture. Instagram+1

Beyond its historical and cinematic connections, Sant Martí Sacosta is a vibrant part of Girona's cultural life. It's particularly noted for its role during local festivals, such as the 'Fiestas de la Primavera' (Spring Festivals), when the city comes alive with celebrations. Instagram

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