
Monastery of the Holy Sepulchre Zaragoza
A hidden gem of Aragonese Mudejar architecture, offering a tranquil escape and a deep dive into Zaragoza's rich history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Limited access, book ahead!

Monastery of the Holy Sepulchre Zaragoza
Best Time
Limited access, book ahead!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem of Aragonese Mudejar architecture, offering a tranquil escape and a deep dive into Zaragoza's rich history.
"An oasis of tranquility and a true gem of Aragonese Mudejar architecture with an incredible history."

🎯 Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the history and architecture. Limited spots, book in advance! :ticket:
⏰ Monday Visits Only
Access is typically restricted to Mondays. Arrive early or book ahead to secure your spot. :calendar:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mudejar Cloister
Monastery interior
A stunning example of Mudejar architecture, this cloister offers a tranquil escape and showcases intricate brickwork.

The Kitchen Tour
Monastery interior
An immersive experience stepping back in time to see a 16th-century convent kitchen, complete with historical details.

Aragonese History Overview
Guided tour
Gain a brilliant overview of Zaragoza's society from the Middle Ages through to modern times on a guided visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Limited Visiting Hours
Book Guided Tours Early
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the history and architecture. Limited spots, book in advance! :ticket:
⏰ Monday Visits Only
Access is typically restricted to Mondays. Arrive early or book ahead to secure your spot. :calendar:
Any advice for the Holy Land?
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
✨ Seek Tranquility
An oasis of peace in the city center, perfect for reflection away from urban hustle. :pray:
🏛️ Mudejar Gem
Don't miss the incredible Mudejar style cloister, a highlight of Aragonese architecture. :gem:
A question regarding the ownership of certain parts of the Church of the holy sepulchre from a recent post? Would I be able to visit and see all parts of the church not just the Roman Catholic parts as long as I’m respectful to the other denominations? I would ideally want to see the whole place!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the history and architecture. Limited spots, book in advance! :ticket:
⏰ Monday Visits Only
Access is typically restricted to Mondays. Arrive early or book ahead to secure your spot. :calendar:
✨ Seek Tranquility
An oasis of peace in the city center, perfect for reflection away from urban hustle. :pray:
🏛️ Mudejar Gem
Don't miss the incredible Mudejar style cloister, a highlight of Aragonese architecture. :gem:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Monastery of the Holy Sepulchre as a hidden gem, highlighting its stunning Mudejar architecture, particularly the cloister, and the profound sense of tranquility it offers. The guided tours are consistently lauded for their informative content, providing deep insights into Aragonese history and the unique lifestyle of the Canonesses. However, the extremely limited visiting hours, primarily Mondays, and the difficulty in securing spots on popular tours are frequently cited drawbacks.
"You can visit several rooms of the monastery every Monday, it has different types of visits. In the year 1306 the canonical foundation of the monastery took place and its construction began shortly after. I think the most beautiful thing is its Mudejar style cloister, the back of the monastery rests on the old wall of Zaragoza."
Doncelador
"Convent located in the city center, a true gem of Aragonese Mudejar architecture with an incredible history behind it. The cloister is marvelous, and the silence you can enjoy within those walls is incredible! I recommend booking a tour with Zaragoza Tourism; the guide is wonderful. The tour costs 5.50."
Fernanda García garrido
"A beautiful, little-known convent located next to the Church of San Nicolás in Zaragoza. There's only one opportunity to visit it weekly: Mondays at 11:00 a.m. The guided tour provides a brilliant overview of Zaragoza society in the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Baroque, and the Modern Age. A must-see on the impressive historical tour of Zaragoza's capital."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Monastery is located in the heart of Zaragoza's historic center, making it easily accessible by public transport or on foot if you're already exploring the city. Several bus lines stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from other major attractions like the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. :bus:
Parking in the historic center of Zaragoza can be challenging. It's advisable to use public parking garages located a short walk from the monastery rather than trying to find street parking. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Visiting hours are very limited. Typically, guided tours are only available on Mondays at specific times, such as 11:00 a.m. It's crucial to check the official schedule and book your tickets in advance, as spots are limited. :clock:
General guided tours are usually around €5.50, while specialized tours like the 'up to the kitchen' experience might cost around €6. Prices can vary, so it's best to confirm on the official booking platform. :euro:
Access is primarily through guided tours, which are essential for understanding the site's historical and architectural significance. Spontaneous visits without a tour are generally not permitted due to the monastery's operational nature. :microphone:
Tickets are best booked through Zaragoza Tourism or the official website of the monastery if available. Due to high demand and limited capacity, booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular tours. :computer:
While some sources mention free visits, the primary access is via paid guided tours. It's important to verify current offerings with Zaragoza Tourism, as 'free' access might be very limited or part of specific events. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way to experience the Monastery is by taking a guided tour. These tours provide invaluable context about the Mudejar architecture, the history of the Canonesses, and the daily life within the convent walls. :scroll:
This specialized tour offers a unique glimpse into the 16th-century convent kitchen and its surrounding areas, including corridors that showcase Roman wall remnants. It's a highly detailed and immersive historical experience. :chef_knife:
Yes, visitors often describe it as an oasis of tranquility, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The silence within its walls is frequently highlighted as a key aspect of the visit. :shushing_face:
The monastery is a significant example of Aragonese Mudejar architecture, with elements of Gothic style also present. The cloister and refectory are particularly noted for their Mudejar artistry. :building_construction:
This is the only operating convent of the Order of the Canonesses in Spain. The guided tours often touch upon the unique lifestyle and history of these nuns. :nun:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most public areas. However, it's always best to check with your guide or look for signage regarding specific restrictions, especially in sensitive areas. :camerawithflash:
The Mudejar cloister is a prime spot for photography, with its intricate brickwork and serene atmosphere. The corridors showcasing the Roman wall and the decorated kitchen also offer unique photographic opportunities. :frame_photo:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's crucial to book tours in advance, as spots are limited. Consider the length of the tour and your children's attention spans. The peaceful atmosphere is a significant aspect of the monastery, so preparing children to be respectful of the quiet environment is important for a positive family experience.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The guided tours are exceptionally informative, providing context on Zaragoza's society across centuries, the life of the Canonesses, and the monastery's resilience through historical sieges. The 'up to the kitchen' tour offers a rare, tangible connection to the past, making it an unforgettable experience for those who appreciate historical immersion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mudejar Marvel: Architecture and History
Beyond the cloister, the monastery holds significant historical value as the sole operating convent of the Order of the Canonesses in Spain. Guided tours delve into the daily lives of these nuns, offering a fascinating insight into a unique monastic tradition. The 'up to the kitchen' tour, for instance, transports visitors to a 16th-century convent kitchen, complete with authentic details, providing a vivid historical narrative.
The monastery's history also bears the scars of conflict, with parts suffering damage during the Second Siege of Zaragoza. This resilience and continuity, from its medieval origins to its present-day operation, make it a compelling site for anyone interested in history, architecture, and the enduring legacy of religious orders.
Navigating Your Visit: Tours and Access
There are different types of tours available, including a general historical overview and a more specialized 'up to the kitchen' experience. The latter offers a particularly immersive look into the convent's past. However, spots for these tours are limited, and demand can be high, so booking in advance through Zaragoza Tourism or the official channels is strongly advised.
Be prepared for a structured visit. The monastery is an active religious site, and access is managed to preserve its tranquility and operational integrity. While it offers an oasis of peace, the limited visiting windows mean that a well-timed and pre-booked visit is key to experiencing this historical gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit