El Salvador Tower
A 14th-century Mudéjar bell tower with intricate tiles, offering historical exhibits and a unique bell chamber experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier climb
El Salvador Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier climb
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 14th-century Mudéjar bell tower with intricate tiles, offering historical exhibits and a unique bell chamber experience.
"Well worth the small entry fee for awesome views and clear, concise history."
🔔 Bell Schedule Awareness
Check the bell schedule to avoid being in the chamber during loud midday chimes if sensitive to noise.
🧥 Dress Warmly in Winter
The tower can be very cold in winter as there are no windows. Layer up for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bell Chamber
Top of the tower
Experience the powerful midday chimes up close, a unique auditory and sensory thrill.
Mudéjar Architecture
Exterior and interior
Admire the intricate Moorish-style tiles and brickwork of this 14th-century architectural marvel.
Historical Exhibitions
On multiple levels
Discover the tower's history, builders, and legends through informative panels and ancient graffiti.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Bells and Comfort
Climbing and History Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔔 Bell Schedule Awareness
Check the bell schedule to avoid being in the chamber during loud midday chimes if sensitive to noise.
🧥 Dress Warmly in Winter
The tower can be very cold in winter as there are no windows. Layer up for comfort.
🚶♀️ Narrow Passages
Be prepared for narrow corridors; it can be a squeeze passing others going the opposite way.
🎟️ Small Entry Fee
The modest entry fee is well worth the historical insights and unique experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔔 Bell Schedule Awareness
Check the bell schedule to avoid being in the chamber during loud midday chimes if sensitive to noise.
🧥 Dress Warmly in Winter
The tower can be very cold in winter as there are no windows. Layer up for comfort.
🚶♀️ Narrow Passages
Be prepared for narrow corridors; it can be a squeeze passing others going the opposite way.
🎟️ Small Entry Fee
The modest entry fee is well worth the historical insights and unique experience.
📜 Historical Insights
Enjoy informative panels in multiple languages and discover 14th-century graffiti on your climb.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise El Salvador Tower for its unique Mudéjar architecture, historical insights, and the thrilling experience of being near the bells. The small entry fee is considered excellent value. Some note the narrow passages and potential for loud bell chimes, advising visitors to be prepared.
"It costs 3 euros to enter the tower and I was absolutely happy to choose to enter here! It’s a little long journey to go up to the top, the tower, but I loved it! You need to be aware of the time of bells. If not, you’ll be hear 12 bells ringing at noon, staying next to the bells. Plus, during the winter, it’s very cold to be on the tower as there is any window. Please keep you warm and go 😆"
Sunny Kim
"Beautiful structure and you can learn it's history by visiting inside. The history is clear and concise and is in English as well as Spanish and French. It's views from the top are awesome. Well worth the small entry fee."
Tracy Irwin
"Tower Mudejar de El Salvador -
Definitely worth a visit if you are passing thru Teruel. Built in the 14th century, it is actually a tower within a tower. The climb is not bad, & there are 4 stopping pointing before reaching the top with nice panels describing the architecture, the builders & legends about the tower (in Spanish, English & French). You can even see 14th century graffiti! Beautiful inside & out, nice views from the top. You can actually be in with the bells at the top when they go off every quarter hour, so if loud noises bother you, take care not no be up there when they go off. We prepared ourselves and went up. Inscribed on UNESCO’s heritage list in 1986."
Diana Rook
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Salvador Tower is centrally located in Teruel, Spain. It's easily accessible on foot if you are already in the city center. Public transport options within Teruel are limited, so walking or a short taxi ride are the most common ways to reach it.
Parking in the historic center of Teruel can be challenging. It's advisable to look for public parking lots slightly outside the immediate vicinity of the tower and walk the rest of the way.
Many city walking tours of Teruel include a visit to El Salvador Tower due to its historical significance and central location. Check with local tour operators for availability.
Approaching El Salvador Tower from the main squares of Teruel offers the most scenic views of its Mudéjar architecture. Enjoy the walk through the charming streets.
Due to the 122 steps and narrow passages, El Salvador Tower is not easily accessible for individuals with significant mobility issues. The climb is a key part of the experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for El Salvador Tower is typically around 3 euros, making it a very affordable attraction.
Advance booking is generally not required for El Salvador Tower, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official local tourism website or inquire at the Teruel tourist office for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. It's worth inquiring at the ticket counter or checking local tourism information for potential offers.
Some city passes for Teruel might include entry to El Salvador Tower. Research available city passes to see if it offers value for your itinerary.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The climb up the 122 steps typically takes about 15-20 minutes, allowing time to stop at the exhibition levels.
On the way up, you'll find exhibitions detailing the tower's architecture, history, and legends, along with ancient graffiti.
The views from the top are described as good, offering a perspective of the city's historic towers and buildings, though not panoramic.
The corridors are narrow, which can make passing others a bit of a squeeze. It adds to the unique, historic feel of the climb.
Yes, you can be in the bell chamber when they ring, which happens every quarter hour. Be prepared for loud noises if you are sensitive.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate Mudéjar tiles on the exterior, the historical panels inside, and the city views from the top. The bell chamber also offers unique shots.
Photography is generally allowed inside El Salvador Tower, but it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions at the entrance.
Late afternoon light can beautifully highlight the brickwork and tiles. Morning light is also good for capturing the tower's details.
Yes, you can photograph the bells, but be mindful of the ringing schedule and ensure you don't obstruct others or the mechanism.
Try shooting from slightly below to emphasize its height, or from across the plaza to capture it with surrounding historic buildings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that the corridors are narrow, so keeping a close eye on younger children is important. The loud bell ringing at quarter-hour intervals can be exciting but might be overwhelming for very young or sensitive children, so consider timing your visit accordingly. Dressing warmly in winter is also key for family comfort.
🚶 Budget Travelers
It's a perfect addition to a day exploring Teruel on foot, as it's centrally located and doesn't require expensive transportation. The climb and the insights gained from the exhibitions provide a rich experience without breaking the bank. Pack snacks and water to further save on expenses during your visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
Exploring the 14th-century graffiti offers a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the past. The detailed panels explaining the tower's construction, legends, and historical context provide a deep dive into Teruel's rich heritage. The tower itself is a living museum, offering a tangible connection to medieval times.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mudéjar Marvel: Architecture and History
The climb to the top is an experience in itself, with 122 steps leading visitors through different levels. Along the ascent, informative panels provide a concise history of the tower, its builders, and local legends, available in Spanish, English, and French. A fascinating discovery for visitors is the presence of 14th-century graffiti, offering a direct glimpse into the lives of those who frequented the tower centuries ago.
Recognized for its exceptional cultural significance, the El Salvador Tower was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage list in 1986, alongside other Mudéjar monuments of Teruel. This designation underscores its importance as a preserved piece of architectural and historical heritage, offering a tangible connection to the region's rich past.
Navigating the Climb and Bell Experience
A unique aspect of visiting the tower is the opportunity to be near the bells when they ring. These bells chime every quarter hour, with a particularly significant ringing at noon. While exciting for some, visitors sensitive to loud noises are advised to be aware of the schedule to avoid being startled. The experience of being so close to the resonating bells is a memorable part of the visit.
During winter, the tower can be quite cold as it lacks windows, so dressing in layers is highly recommended for a more comfortable experience. The views from the top, while not described as stunningly panoramic, offer good perspectives of the surrounding historic towers and buildings in Teruel, providing a satisfying conclusion to the climb.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit