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Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria

4.4
·484 reviews·Gandia, Spain

A historic 12th-century basilica in Gandia, recently restored, featuring stunning interiors and a striking bell tower.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Concert Evenings

Unique access & atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Conoce la Colegiata, único Monumento Nacional de Gandia. Infórmate de horario y precios en nuestra web.

Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria

Best Time

Concert Evenings

Unique access & atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 12th-century basilica in Gandia, recently restored, featuring stunning interiors and a striking bell tower.

4.4
(484 reviews)

"A peaceful and pleasant stop, worth combining with the Ducal Palace for a historical overview."

Vertical photo
TIP

Combine with Ducal Palace

Pair your basilica visit with the nearby Ducal Palace for a comprehensive historical overview of Gandia. :world_map:

Check for Events

Look for concerts or special events like 'A La Llum de La Seu' for unique access and experiences. :musical_score:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Restored Interior

Restored Interior

Inside the Basilica

Marvel at the beautifully restored interior, showcasing medieval art, Goya reproductions, and stunning stained glass.

Bell Tower Views

Bell Tower Views

Exterior

Admire the newly tiled blue and white bell tower, a striking addition that enhances the beauty of the adjacent plaza.

Historical Markings

Historical Markings

Exterior Stone

Look for intricate markings chiseled into the stone by ancient stoneworkers, a testament to the building's history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria in Gandia is a worthwhile stop, many visitors note ongoing repairs or recent restorations. Check local listings for concert schedules or special events, as these can offer unique access and experiences. Combine your visit with the nearby Ducal Palace for a comprehensive historical overview of Gandia.

Beyond the Basilica

The Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria, while charming, is often described as a pleasant stop rather than a primary destination. Many reviewers suggest pairing it with nearby attractions like the Ducal Palace for a fuller experience. Enjoy the surrounding cafes for a relaxing break with a view after your visit.

Best Times

When
Concert Evenings
Why
Unique access & atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

a malta anda crazy #vaiprofy #gandia #viagemdefinalistas #fy
@fknzekaa
35.5K likes • 824.6K views

Combine with Ducal Palace

Pair your basilica visit with the nearby Ducal Palace for a comprehensive historical overview of Gandia. :world_map:

Check for Events

Look for concerts or special events like 'A La Llum de La Seu' for unique access and experiences. :musical_score:

🔴⛈ Nos llega otro vídeo desde el casco antiguo de la playa de Gandia, con calles y bajos totalmente anegados. 📲 @VOSTcvalenciana #AvisoRojo #LluviasFuertes #Inundaciones #Gandia
@gandiazoom
21.4K likes • 1.4M views
A few days ago, I had the rare opportunity to climb onto the ceiling of the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, allowing me to show you the splendid mosaics of the apse and transept from a different perspective. Qualche giorno fa, ho avuto la possibilità più unica che rara di salire sul soffitto della basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, consentendomi così di farvi apprezzare da una prospett...
roberto_celestri
219.1K likes • 2.2M views

Audio Guide Available

Opt for the English self-guided audio tour for an informative and engaging visit. :iphone:

Enjoy Nearby Cafes

Relax at the charming cafes nearby with a coffee and a view after your visit. :coffee:

One of my favourite churches in Rome! Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, alongside St. Peters basilica, San Paolo Fuori le Mura, and San Giovanni in Laterano - and it’s a must-see if you’re visiting during the Jubilee Year. Comment “holy door” below and I’ll send you the link to the same private tour of the papal basilicas that I went on! #jubilee2025 #romeitinera...
iambrianneb
10.4K likes • 276.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Combine with Ducal Palace

Pair your basilica visit with the nearby Ducal Palace for a comprehensive historical overview of Gandia. :world_map:

Check for Events

Look for concerts or special events like 'A La Llum de La Seu' for unique access and experiences. :musical_score:

Audio Guide Available

Opt for the English self-guided audio tour for an informative and engaging visit. :iphone:

Enjoy Nearby Cafes

Relax at the charming cafes nearby with a coffee and a view after your visit. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(484 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria to be a charming and historically significant site in Gandia, particularly appreciated after recent restorations. While not always the most spectacular landmark, its restored interior, bell tower, and historical context make it a worthwhile stop, especially when combined with nearby attractions and enjoyed from the surrounding cafes.

"The Collegiate Basilica of Gandia may not be the most spectacular landmark, but it has a simple charm and looks great from the outside. It’s worth a quick visit while exploring the city. Plus, there are some lovely cafés nearby where you can sit, relax, and enjoy a coffee with a view. A peaceful and pleasant stop! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"

Eugen Bocharnikoff

"The Collegiate or La Seu" Basilica has been under repair for months, but last night we attended a concert (A La Llum de La Seu”) classical Spanish guitar by 16 year old phenom Ausias Parejo (who won the Valencia music contest) and we were wowed by the music and the beautifully restored Collegiate. We saw the burn marks from the Spanish civil war and where the original building columns and arches were located and the repaired building after the war. You can see via pictures the original baptism font where the Borja (Borgia) family was baptized and the newer font, as well as beautiful reproductions of Goya paintings. The stained glass and rose window let in such beautiful light. Outside chiseled in the stone you can see the markings by the stone workers.
Combine this Collegiate tour with the nearby Ducal Palace tour for a great historical overview of Gandia

Update: the repairs are complete and the newly tiled blue and white bell tower is stunning! It makes plaza Ayuntamiento look even more beautiful."

Katherine Moore

"Well worth stopping in...don't miss the cathedral next door!!"

Tim Mathias

What People Like

Beautifully restored interior
Striking bell tower
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Ongoing repairs (historically)
Can be a quick visit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria is located in Gandia, Spain. It's often visited in conjunction with the Ducal Palace. Public transport options within Gandia are generally good, and the basilica is usually accessible by foot from the city center. Parking may be available nearby, but it's advisable to check local conditions, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Yes, Gandia has a public transport system that can help you reach the vicinity of the basilica. Local buses are a convenient option. If arriving from other cities, you'll likely use Gandia's train or bus station and then transfer to local transport or walk.

Many visitors find that exploring the area on foot is the best approach, especially since the basilica and the Ducal Palace are relatively close. This allows you to fully appreciate the charm of the old town and discover hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, especially as the basilica has undergone repairs. It's recommended to check the most current hours before your visit. Some sources indicate it's open daily, with specific times for visits and potential closures for services or events. :clock1:

While advance booking might not always be strictly necessary, it's a good idea to check if tickets can be purchased online, especially if you plan to visit during a special event or a busy period. This can save you time. :ticket:

There is typically an entrance fee for the Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria, which often includes access to an audio guide. The cost is generally considered reasonable for the historical and artistic value provided. :moneybag:

Yes, English self-guided audio tours are available and highly recommended by visitors for a comprehensive understanding of the basilica's history and features. :iphone:

The basilica has undergone significant repairs and restorations. While some areas might be temporarily inaccessible, visitors have still been able to attend concerts and experience parts of the beautifully restored building. It's best to check the current status of any ongoing work.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Visitors should look for the beautifully restored interior, including reproductions of Goya paintings, original baptism fonts (and newer ones), intricate stained glass, and the rose window. The historical markings by stoneworkers on the exterior are also a fascinating detail. :camerawithflash:

Yes, the basilica offers many beautiful photographic opportunities, from the architectural details and stained glass to the restored interior. The blue and white bell tower also makes for a striking exterior shot. :iphone:

The basilica dates back to the 12th century and holds significant historical importance, including being the site where the Borja (Borgia) family was baptized. It showcases a mix of medieval art and architecture, with evidence of damage and restoration from the Spanish Civil War. :scroll:

Attending a concert within the basilica, such as classical Spanish guitar performances, offers a unique way to experience the acoustics and beauty of the restored space. These events can provide special access and a memorable atmosphere. :musical_score:

The basilica is described as having a simple charm and being a peaceful and pleasant stop. The restored elements, combined with the natural light filtering through the stained glass, create a serene and historically rich environment. :pray:

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, there are lovely cafes located near the Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria. These spots are perfect for enjoying a coffee and taking in the views of the plaza after your visit. :coffee:

Gandia offers a range of dining options, from traditional Spanish cuisine to more contemporary choices. You can find tapas bars, seafood restaurants, and cafes throughout the city, especially near the historic center and the beach area.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the blue and white bell tower from the plaza. Inside, focus on the intricate stained glass windows, the gilded ceiling, and any visible Goya reproductions. The exterior stonework also offers unique photographic details. :camerawithflash:

Photography is generally allowed inside the basilica, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of ongoing services or other visitors. Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the artwork. :iphone:

Mornings can offer softer light for exterior shots of the bell tower and plaza. Inside, the light filtering through the stained glass is beautiful throughout the day, but consider visiting when it's less crowded for unobstructed photos.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria can be a good stop for families, especially when combined with the nearby Ducal Palace for a broader historical context. While the basilica itself might be more about quiet contemplation and historical details, the visual elements like stained glass and the striking bell tower can capture children's attention. Consider the audio guide to make the history more engaging for older children. The nearby cafes offer a relaxed spot for a break. :ice_cream:

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria is a must-visit. Its 12th-century origins, connection to the Borja family, and visible layers of history, including post-Civil War restoration, offer a rich narrative. Pay close attention to the stonework markings and the details of the restored interior, including the Goya reproductions and baptismal fonts. The audio guide is highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding. :scroll:

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find ample opportunities at the Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria. The blue and white bell tower is a standout subject, especially when viewed from the plaza. Inside, the interplay of light through the stained glass windows creates dramatic effects. Look for architectural details, the gilded ceiling, and any unique textures in the stonework. Visiting during a concert can also offer unique perspectives. :camerawithflash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Restoration of the Basilica

The Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria in Gandia boasts a rich history, with its origins tracing back to the 12th century. It has served as a significant religious and cultural center for the city, most notably as the baptismal site for the influential Borja (Borgia) family. The basilica's architecture reflects a blend of styles accumulated over centuries, showcasing its evolution. Evidence of historical events, such as damage from the Spanish Civil War, is visible, making its preservation and restoration a crucial undertaking.

Recent efforts have focused on meticulously restoring the basilica to its former glory. Visitors have been impressed by the results, particularly the newly tiled blue and white bell tower, which has become a striking landmark. The interior restoration has brought to light magnificent artworks, including reproductions of Goya paintings and beautifully preserved stained glass windows. These restoration projects not only preserve the heritage but also enhance the visitor experience, allowing people to connect with the past in a tangible way. Reddit

The ongoing work, while sometimes leading to temporary closures or limited access, ultimately ensures that this historical gem can be appreciated by future generations. The combination of historical significance and dedicated restoration makes the Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria a compelling site for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Experiencing the Basilica: Beyond a Quick Visit

While the Collegiate Basilica Santa Maria is often described as a charming and pleasant stop, many visitors recommend extending your experience beyond a brief look. The availability of English self-guided audio tours provides a deeper understanding of the basilica's intricate details, historical context, and artistic significance. These tours are praised for being informative and enhancing the overall visit. Reddit

Furthermore, the basilica occasionally hosts cultural events, such as classical Spanish guitar concerts. Attending one of these performances offers a unique opportunity to experience the venue's acoustics and atmosphere in a special way. Such events can provide access to areas not typically open to the public and create a memorable occasion. Reddit Combining your visit with the nearby Ducal Palace is also a popular strategy, offering a more comprehensive historical narrative of Gandia and its prominent families. This approach allows for a fuller appreciation of the region's heritage. Reddit

Finally, don't overlook the simple pleasure of relaxing at one of the nearby cafes. These spots offer a chance to reflect on your visit, enjoy the local ambiance, and take in the picturesque views of the plaza, making for a well-rounded and enjoyable outing.

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