New Cathedral Salamanca
A magnificent fusion of Gothic and Baroque architecture, famed for its intricate carvings, including a modern astronaut.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
New Cathedral Salamanca
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent fusion of Gothic and Baroque architecture, famed for its intricate carvings, including a modern astronaut.
"Climbing the tower was one of the highlights, offering incredible panoramic views!"
🎯 Combined Ticket Value
Get access to both Old & New Cathedrals for one price. A great deal! :ticket:
🎧 Audio Guide Essential
Don't miss the audio guide to truly appreciate the history and details. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Astronaut Carving
Facade
Spot the quirky astronaut carving, a modern addition to this historic facade, sparking curiosity and conversation.

Ieronimus Towers
Cathedral interior
Ascend the towers for breathtaking panoramic views of Salamanca and explore the historic passageways.

Gothic and Baroque Architecture
Interior and Exterior
Marvel at the seamless blend of late Gothic and Baroque styles, creating a grand and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Combined Cathedral Experience
Adjacent to Old Cathedral
Explore both the New and Old Cathedrals with a single ticket, experiencing centuries of architectural evolution.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Details
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Combined Ticket Value
Get access to both Old & New Cathedrals for one price. A great deal!
:ticket:🎧 Audio Guide Essential
Don't miss the audio guide to truly appreciate the history and details.
:iphone:🚶♀️ Patience for Crowds
It's a popular spot, so be prepared for crowds and take your time.
:people_hugging:⬆️ Tower Views
Climbing the Ieronimus towers offers unforgettable city panoramas.
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Combined Ticket Value
Get access to both Old & New Cathedrals for one price. A great deal!
:ticket:🎧 Audio Guide Essential
Don't miss the audio guide to truly appreciate the history and details.
:iphone:🚶♀️ Patience for Crowds
It's a popular spot, so be prepared for crowds and take your time.
:people_hugging:⬆️ Tower Views
Climbing the Ieronimus towers offers unforgettable city panoramas.
:camerawithflash:✨ Nighttime Spectacle
The cathedral is stunning when illuminated at night.
:sparkles:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the New Cathedral's stunning architecture, a captivating blend of Gothic and Baroque styles. The unique astronaut carving and the panoramic views from the Ieronimus Towers are frequently highlighted as memorable experiences. While entry fees and occasional crowds are noted, the overall consensus is that it's a must-visit landmark in Salamanca.
"It's one of 2 cathedrals in Salamanca and is the seat of the diocese of Salamanca. Built between 1533 and 1733 with mix of Gothic and Baroque styles - one of the largest Cathedrals in Spain with one of the tallest bell tower. We visited in the night and stayed on to the night when they had an Easter procession in the streets. Popular place that is not free entry. Easy walking to get there, but many people visit it so you have to be patient."
s vivekananda
"Very nice cathedral (and a great option for mid/late in day when temps rise to high 30 Celsius). The audio guide is essential but goes a little overboard sometimes giving names of nobility, artists, clergy, you name it. The old cathedral attached is also very interesting, it has even older relics."
jose lourenco
"Simply spectacular. Between old and new cathedral, every corner is beautiful. It blends into the whole of Salamanca cento."
Ghassan Shamseddine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The New Cathedral is centrally located in Salamanca, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. If you're arriving by bus or train, it's a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride away. Many visitors find it convenient to explore the cathedral as part of a walking tour of Salamanca's historic center.
Parking in the historic center of Salamanca can be challenging. There are several paid parking garages available, but they can fill up quickly. It's often recommended to use public transport or walk if possible, especially if you're staying within the city.
Absolutely! The New Cathedral is a central attraction and can easily be visited as part of a day trip. Combine it with a stroll through the Plaza Mayor and a visit to the University of Salamanca for a fulfilling day.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the cathedral's history and architecture. Many tours, including night tours like Ieronimus, offer unique perspectives.
For a comprehensive experience, consider a combined ticket for both the Old and New Cathedrals. Many visitors also opt for guided tours that cover both, offering historical context and architectural insights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the New Cathedral typically requires a ticket, often combined with access to the Old Cathedral. Prices can vary, but expect around €10 for a combined ticket. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and to book in advance.
Access to the Ieronimus Towers is usually included in a special ticket or as part of a comprehensive cathedral visit. This allows you to climb the towers and enjoy the panoramic views of Salamanca.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and any ongoing religious services. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, it's open during daylight hours.
Yes, you can often visit the cathedral during religious services, though access to certain areas might be restricted. Some visitors find attending a service a moving experience, even if they don't understand the language.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is usually available on the official ticketing website. It's worth checking for any available concessions when booking your tickets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The New Cathedral in Salamanca features a unique astronaut carving on its facade, added during restoration in the 1990s. It's a fun, modern detail that sparks much discussion and is a popular photo opportunity.
As a place of worship, modest attire is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to climb the Ieronimus Towers.
While the main areas of the cathedral are generally accessible, climbing the Ieronimus Towers involves many stairs and may not be suitable for everyone. Check with the cathedral administration for specific accessibility information.
The Old Cathedral is a Romanesque and Gothic structure, while the New Cathedral is a grander, later construction blending late Gothic and Baroque styles. Visiting both offers a fascinating contrast in architectural periods.
Photography is generally allowed inside the New Cathedral, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork and interiors. Always check for signage regarding photography rules.
📸 📸 Photography
The facade, especially with the astronaut carving, is a must-capture. For stunning cityscapes, head up the Ieronimus Towers. The interior, with its grand nave and stained glass, also offers incredible photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical monuments due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check local drone laws before flying near the New Cathedral.
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset offers beautiful warm light that enhances the stone's color. Evening, when the cathedral is illuminated, also provides a dramatic photographic subject.
Don't miss the chance to photograph the astronaut carving! Also, capturing the intricate details of the facade and the vastness of the interior from unique angles can yield striking images.
For interior shots, a wider aperture (lower f-number) will help capture more light. Using a tripod or stabilizing your camera is recommended for low-light conditions to avoid blur.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Astronaut and Other Quirky Details
Beyond the astronaut, the cathedral's facade is adorned with a rich tapestry of sculptures depicting religious figures, mythical creatures, and everyday life. Take your time to look closely; you might discover other hidden gems and playful details that tell stories of the era. This attention to detail is a hallmark of the Plateresque style, a Spanish Renaissance architectural style characterized by intricate ornamentation.
These unique carvings serve as a reminder that even the most solemn of structures can have a touch of whimsy. They invite visitors to engage with the cathedral on a more personal and playful level, making the experience more memorable and shareable.
Climbing the Ieronimus Towers: A Journey Through History and Views
The ascent itself is an adventure, taking you through historic passageways that whisper tales of the city's past. From the top, the panoramic views are simply breathtaking. You can survey the terracotta rooftops of Salamanca, the grand Plaza Mayor, and the rolling countryside beyond. It's an ideal spot for photography and for truly appreciating the city's layout and beauty from above.
This experience is more than just a viewpoint; it's a journey through the cathedral's architecture and history, offering a sense of scale and grandeur that can't be grasped from ground level. It's a highlight for many visitors and a highly recommended activity for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience in Salamanca.
The Architectural Fusion: Gothic Meets Baroque
The Gothic elements are evident in its soaring vaults, pointed arches, and intricate tracery, creating a sense of verticality and grandeur. As the construction progressed into the Baroque period, the cathedral gained more ornate facades, dramatic embellishments, and a richer, more dynamic interior. This fusion results in a complex and visually captivating structure that appeals to lovers of both styles.
This architectural layering is what makes the New Cathedral so unique. It's not just a single style but a testament to the changing artistic trends and the dedication of the artisans who worked on it over generations. The result is a masterpiece that continues to inspire awe and wonder in all who visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit