San Juan del Hospital Church
Valencia's oldest church (1238), a serene sanctuary blending Romanesque & Gothic styles, offering English confession and masses.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet reflection
San Juan del Hospital Church
Best Time
Quiet reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Valencia's oldest church (1238), a serene sanctuary blending Romanesque & Gothic styles, offering English confession and masses.
"A peaceful haven with heartwarming priests, offering spiritual help and historical beauty."
🎯 Find it off the beaten path
This gem is tucked away in a courtyard, easily missed if you stick to main routes. Wander a bit! :camerawithflash:
🙏 Confession in English
Don't hesitate to ask for confession in English; priests here are known to be accommodating. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Romanesque & Gothic Architecture
Main Nave
Experience the oldest church in Valencia, a stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles dating back to 1238.
Tranquil Courtyard Stations of the Cross
Courtyard
Wander through a peaceful courtyard featuring hand-painted tile Stations of the Cross, offering a contemplative experience.
English Confession and Masses
Chapel
Find spiritual solace with confession often available in English and English masses on Saturdays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Valencia's Oldest Church
Peaceful Reflection and Confession
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find it off the beaten path
This gem is tucked away in a courtyard, easily missed if you stick to main routes. Wander a bit! :camerawithflash:
🙏 Confession in English
Don't hesitate to ask for confession in English; priests here are known to be accommodating. :pray:
Church recommendations Valencia?
🚶♀️ Peaceful Courtyard Walk
Take time to appreciate the hand-painted Stations of the Cross in the serene courtyard. :walking:
🕰️ Oldest Church in Valencia
Marvel at its 1238 origins, predating the Cathedral, showcasing Romanesque and Gothic elements.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find it off the beaten path
This gem is tucked away in a courtyard, easily missed if you stick to main routes. Wander a bit! :camerawithflash:
🙏 Confession in English
Don't hesitate to ask for confession in English; priests here are known to be accommodating. :pray:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Courtyard Walk
Take time to appreciate the hand-painted Stations of the Cross in the serene courtyard. :walking:
🕰️ Oldest Church in Valencia
Marvel at its 1238 origins, predating the Cathedral, showcasing Romanesque and Gothic elements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise San Juan del Hospital Church for its profound historical significance as Valencia's oldest church and its deeply spiritual, serene atmosphere. Many highlight the welcoming nature of the priests, especially the availability of confession and masses in English, making it a cherished sanctuary for international visitors. While some find it less grand than other Spanish churches, its quiet charm and historical authenticity are consistently appreciated.
"Very nice church with heartwarming priests, confession is always available and almost always available in English! On Saturday there are English masses in the chapel as well. And extra credit to Fr. Jesus Gil, he is a lifesaver. I don't know what I would have done without him and this church, because, as someone with poor b1 spanish, I don't know where else could I confess and find such a strong spiritual help as there"
Egor Yakovlev
"Simple and beautiful 13th church in the heart of old town Valencia. You might miss it if you don’t wander a bit off the beaten path away from the main cathedral. It’s in a courtyard, not obvious from the street. Once in the courtyard there are interesting statues and stations of the cross done on hand painted tiles and set into the stone walls so that people can walk the stations in the courtyard. Always amazes me to experience history in such a beautiful, old structure."
Tony Kehlhofer
"The oldest catholic church in Valencia. Good place to discover romanesque and gothic styles."
Wojciech Jakubowicz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the heart of Valencia's old town. It's best reached on foot from the city center or by taking public transport to nearby stops like Colón or Xàtiva metro stations, followed by a short walk.
It can be a bit tricky as it's situated in a courtyard, not directly on a main street. Look for signs or ask locals for directions to find the entrance off the beaten path.
Wandering through the historic old town on foot is highly recommended. You can discover hidden plazas and charming streets on your way to or from the church. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is generally free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and historical significance. Donations are always appreciated. :heart:
Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check their official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information, especially around holidays. :clock1:
While the church is free, there might be a small fee for specific areas like a museum or special exhibitions if available. Check on-site for details. :ticket:
Yes, you can usually visit on Sundays, but be mindful of potential service times. It's always a good idea to confirm hours beforehand, especially if you plan to attend a service. :church:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
This church holds the distinction of being the oldest Catholic church in Valencia, founded in 1238 after the Reconquest. It showcases a fascinating mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles.
Yes, many visitors report that confession is often available in English, making it a welcoming place for those with limited Spanish. :pray:
Indeed, English masses are typically held in the chapel on Saturday mornings, providing an opportunity for English speakers to worship. :church:
The courtyard features beautiful hand-painted tile Stations of the Cross, offering a peaceful and reflective space for visitors to walk and contemplate. :walking:
Compared to major attractions like the Valencia Cathedral, this church is often described as quiet and solemn, with fewer tourists, offering a more intimate experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash, especially during services or prayer times. :camerawithflash:
The courtyard with the Stations of the Cross offers unique photographic opportunities. The interior's architectural details, like arches and altars, are also very photogenic.
Be mindful of any posted signs regarding photography, particularly in areas where services are being held or in more sensitive parts of the church. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking spiritual connection, the availability of confession in English and English masses on Saturdays is a significant plus. It allows parents and children to participate in religious services in a language they understand, making the experience more inclusive and meaningful. Remember to keep voices low and encourage respectful behavior within the sacred space. :church: :walking:
🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Those Needing Confession
The Saturday English masses also provide a consistent opportunity for English-speaking individuals to worship. The church's quiet and solemn atmosphere, away from the main tourist crowds, fosters a sense of peace and reverence, making it an ideal location for prayer, reflection, and receiving sacraments.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The church's location in a less-trafficked area means you can often appreciate its historical details without the overwhelming crowds found at larger cathedrals. The courtyard's Stations of the Cross also add a layer of historical narrative, presented through unique hand-painted tiles. It’s a place to truly immerse yourself in centuries of history. :classical_building: :scroll:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Valencia's Oldest Sanctuary
Visitors often remark on the church's serene and solemn atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling city outside. It's a place where history feels palpable, offering a quiet space for reflection. The presence of hand-painted tile Stations of the Cross in the courtyard adds another layer of contemplative beauty, inviting visitors to engage with the site on a deeper level.
Beyond its architectural and historical significance, San Juan del Hospital Church is also recognized for its welcoming community. Many travelers have found solace here, particularly noting the availability of confession in English and English-language masses on Saturdays. This spiritual accessibility makes it a cherished spot for international visitors seeking connection and guidance.
Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips
For those seeking spiritual guidance, the church is renowned for its accommodating priests, with confession frequently offered in English. This is a significant draw for international visitors who may not be fluent in Spanish. Additionally, English masses are held on Saturday mornings, providing a regular opportunity for English-speaking congregants to participate in worship.
When visiting, take your time to absorb the atmosphere. The courtyard's Stations of the Cross are a beautiful and peaceful element, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection. While photography is generally allowed, always be mindful and respectful, especially during services. The church's historical depth and tranquil ambiance make it a worthwhile detour for those looking for a more intimate historical and spiritual experience in Valencia. :camerawithflash: :pray:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit