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Cathedral of San Antolin Palencia

4.6
·4k reviews·Palencia, Spain

Spain's 'unknown beauty,' the 3rd largest cathedral, offering unique triforium walks and stunning art.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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cabecera de la catedral al exterior

Cathedral of San Antolin Palencia

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Spain's 'unknown beauty,' the 3rd largest cathedral, offering unique triforium walks and stunning art.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"OH WOW what a building, the outside architecture is astounding, this is a real must visit when in Palencia."

Vertical photo
TIP

😮 'The Unknown Beauty'

Often called Spain's 'unknown beauty,' don't underestimate its grandeur!

🚶‍♀️ Triforium Secret Passages

Explore the unique triforium for a hidden perspective above the main nave.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Triforium Walkway

The Triforium Walkway

Upper levels of the Cathedral

Walk above the vaults for a unique perspective, exploring the hidden spaces between stone and roof.

El Greco's 'Martyrdom of St. Sebastian'

El Greco's 'Martyrdom of St. Sebastian'

Art gallery

Admire this striking and surprisingly modern-feeling work by the master artist.

The 'Cristo de las Batallas'

The 'Cristo de las Batallas'

Chapel

A powerful 14th-century crucifix that evokes deep emotion and historical significance.

Stork Nests on the Tower

Stork Nests on the Tower

Exterior towers

Listen to the distinctive clatter of storks nesting atop the cathedral towers.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Cathedral of San Antolín is the third-largest in Spain, so expect crowds, especially during local festivals like San Antolín in September. Consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours to avoid the largest groups and fully appreciate its grandeur.

Ticket & Tour Tips

Entry is around 6 Euros and is well worth it for the sheer scale and artistry. Guided tours are available and highly recommended for deeper insights, even if your Spanish isn't fluent. Check for specific tour times to maximize your experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon guided tours
Why
Gain deeper insights
Crowd
Medium
When
September (San Antolín)
Why
Experience local festivals
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

feliz san antolín a todxs!!!💜💜💜💜 #castilla #fiesta #mujer #palencia #fyp
@el.chiguito
8.1K likes • 91.2K views

😮 'The Unknown Beauty'

Often called Spain's 'unknown beauty,' don't underestimate its grandeur! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Triforium Secret Passages

Explore the unique triforium for a hidden perspective above the main nave. TikTok

que dure este minuto 100 años más ❤️‍🩹 @Dani Fernández 🌹#danifernandez #danifernandezmusic #danifdez #palencia #fiestassanantolin #fiestas #concierto #fyp #parati
@nu13ria
3K likes • 51.9K views
The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Antoninus (Spanish: Catedral-Basílica de San Antolín) is a Roman Catolic church located in Palencia, Spain. . #chathedral #basilica #catolicos #palencia #spanje #spain #españa #traveladdict #traveler #traveladdict #wanderlust #wanderer #discoverspain #discovereurope #photography #photographylovers #plaza #streetview #streetphotography
e_lise_z
86 likes • 312 views

🇪🇸 Guided Tours Recommended

Even with limited Spanish, guides offer valuable context. Reddit

💰 Worth the Entry Fee

At around 6 Euros, the admission is a bargain for its size and art. Reddit

San Antolín, mártir galo del siglo III, es el patrón de Palencia. El rey visigodo Wamba halló sus reliquias en la cripta donde se alza la Catedral. Cada 2 de septiembre, la ciudad celebra sus fiestas patronales en su honor. #SanAntolín #Palencia #Historia #CatedralDePalencia #FiestasDeSanAntolín #PatrónDePalencia
marioopazo_
1.5K likes • 18.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

😮 'The Unknown Beauty'

Often called Spain's 'unknown beauty,' don't underestimate its grandeur! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Triforium Secret Passages

Explore the unique triforium for a hidden perspective above the main nave. TikTok

🇪🇸 Guided Tours Recommended

Even with limited Spanish, guides offer valuable context. Reddit

💰 Worth the Entry Fee

At around 6 Euros, the admission is a bargain for its size and art. Reddit

🎶 Stork Symphony

Listen for the unique clatter of storks nesting on the towers. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the Cathedral of San Antolín's immense scale and architectural grandeur, often calling it an 'unknown beauty.' The triforium walk and significant artworks like El Greco's painting are frequently highlighted as must-sees. While some find the interior decor a bit ostentatious, the overall condition and historical value are highly praised.

"OH WOW what a building , the outside architecture is astounding, I didn’t go in as today I hadn’t time , it’s meant to be the 3rd largest cathedral in Spain and I could believe that very easily. The square in front of the building is so well kept and the spires of the building with thier decorative architecture that dominate this area are simply fantastic, this is a real must visit when in Palencia"

Aidan Murphy

"Very impressive and interesting cathedral!
Entry is 6 Euros but it is definitely worth it. Being Spain's 3rd biggest cathedral, it offers countless chapels with richly decorated altairs, several choirs, two big naves, a transept and catacombs.
The condition is surprisingly good due to excellent maintenance."

Ludowig Grodowig

"The gothic Cathedral Basilica of Saint Antoninus, dedicated to Saint Antonius of Pampers, is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe (130m x 42m high x 50m wide) similar in size to Cathedral of Reims, and Notre Dame de Paris.

It is generally known as “the unknown beauty" because it is not as well known as other Spanish cathedrals, though it has works of art of great value, including a fabulous El Greco: the martyrdom of St. Sebastian from 1579.

A curiosity are the stork nests on the tower, so you are constantly followed by the characteristic noisy bill-clattering, which appears to be distant machine gun fire."

Jesper Carvalho Andersen

What People Like

Immense scale and grandeur
Unique triforium walk
Valuable art collection

What People Dislike

Some ornate decor

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cathedral of San Antolín is centrally located in Palencia, easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. If arriving by car, there are parking options nearby, though they can be busy. Public transport options are limited directly to the cathedral, but buses stop in the city center, a short walk away. Instagram

Palencia is well-connected by train to major cities like Valladolid and Madrid, making it a feasible day trip destination. The train station is a manageable walk or short taxi ride from the cathedral. Instagram

The historic center of Palencia, including the cathedral, is best explored on foot. This allows you to discover charming streets and smaller plazas at your own pace. Instagram

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking around the city and within the cathedral itself. Reddit

While you can drive near the cathedral, the immediate area is often pedestrianized or has restricted access. It's advisable to park in a nearby public car park and walk the rest of the way. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The general admission fee for the Cathedral of San Antolín is approximately 6 Euros. This price is considered very reasonable given the cathedral's size and the treasures it holds. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for students, seniors, or groups is best obtained directly from the cathedral's official website or at the ticket office upon arrival. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official cathedral website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, it's open during daylight hours, with potential closures for services. Reddit

While advance booking might not always be necessary, especially during off-peak times, it can be a good idea during peak tourist seasons or local festival periods to secure your entry. Reddit

The entry fee typically includes access to the main cathedral, chapels, and often the catacombs. Special access to certain areas like the triforium might be included or require a separate ticket/tour. TikTokReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the impressive triforium walkway for a unique aerial view, El Greco's 'Martyrdom of St. Sebastian,' the 'Cristo de las Batallas,' and the magnificent choir and organ. The sheer scale of the cathedral itself is a highlight. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended. They offer in-depth historical and artistic context. Even if your Spanish is limited, the guides often speak clearly and visitors can still benefit greatly. Reddit

To fully appreciate the Cathedral of San Antolín, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to take a guided tour and explore thoroughly, you might need more time. Reddit

While the main areas of the cathedral are generally accessible, some parts like the triforium or crypts might have stairs or uneven surfaces. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility options beforehand. Reddit

San Antolín is the patron saint of Palencia. His relics were found in the crypt where the cathedral now stands, and the city celebrates its patronal festivals in his honor every September 2nd. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside the Cathedral of San Antolín, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography, which is often discouraged to protect the artwork and artifacts. Instagram

The triforium offers unique angles looking down into the nave. The grand altars, intricate stonework, and stained-glass windows are also prime subjects. Don't forget to capture the exterior architecture from the plaza. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical monuments due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted. Instagram

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both wide shots of the architecture and details of the artwork. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be great for low-light conditions inside. Instagram

Yes, photography of the El Greco painting is usually allowed, but always be mindful of other visitors and any posted signage regarding flash use. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The sheer scale of the Cathedral of San Antolín can be awe-inspiring for children, making it feel like a giant castle. The triforium walk offers a sense of adventure, like exploring a secret passage. Pointing out the stork nests on the towers can be a fun scavenger hunt activity, and their unique clattering sound is often a hit with younger visitors. Reddit While the art might not hold their attention for long, the vast spaces and historical stories can spark their imagination. Consider bringing a small notebook for them to sketch what they see or a simple guide to point out interesting features. TikTok

Keep in mind that extended periods of quiet can be challenging for very young children. Plan your visit during less crowded times and perhaps focus on a few key highlights rather than trying to see everything. The entrance fee is modest, making it an accessible outing. Ensure they wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking involved both inside and around the cathedral. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Art Lovers

For history buffs, the Cathedral of San Antolín is a treasure trove. Its construction spans centuries, offering a visible timeline of architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic and Renaissance. The crypt, where the relics of Saint Antolín were discovered, is a focal point for understanding the cathedral's origins and its significance as a pilgrimage site. Instagram The stories of King Wamba and the patron saint add layers of historical narrative to the visit. Instagram

Art lovers will be captivated by the collection, particularly El Greco's 'Martyrdom of St. Sebastian,' a piece that continues to impress with its artistic merit. InstagramReddit The 'Cristo de las Batallas' is another significant work, offering a powerful visual experience. Instagram The cathedral's well-maintained condition ensures that these artistic treasures are presented in their best light, allowing for detailed appreciation of the craftsmanship and historical context. The triforium also provides a unique architectural perspective that history enthusiasts will appreciate. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvels and Hidden Spaces

The Cathedral of San Antolín is a testament to centuries of architectural evolution, primarily showcasing Gothic styles but with Romanesque and Renaissance elements. Its sheer size, often cited as the third largest in Spain, is immediately apparent upon entering. A truly unique feature is the triforium, an upper gallery that allows visitors to walk above the main nave's vaults. This offers an unparalleled perspective on the cathedral's construction and a glimpse into the hidden spaces between the stone and the roof. TikTok This architectural ingenuity is a highlight that sets it apart from many other cathedrals. Reddit

Beyond the grand scale, the cathedral is filled with intricate details. From the magnificent choir with its detailed carvings to the impressive organ, every corner reveals craftsmanship. The stonework throughout the building is exceptional, showcasing the skill of medieval artisans. Even the exterior, with its spires and decorative architecture, dominates the surrounding plaza, making it a visually stunning landmark. Reddit

For those interested in the deeper history, the crypt where the relics of Saint Antolín were found is a significant area. The cathedral's construction spans a long period, meaning you can observe different styles and techniques layered over time. The presence of stork nests on the towers adds a charming, natural element to the historical architecture, providing a unique soundtrack to your visit with their distinctive clattering. Reddit

Artistic Treasures and Historical Significance

The Cathedral of San Antolín houses a remarkable collection of art, with El Greco's 'Martyrdom of St. Sebastian' being a standout piece. This painting is noted for its striking composition and a surprisingly contemporary feel, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts. InstagramReddit Another significant artwork is the 'Cristo de las Batallas', a powerful 14th-century crucifix that commands attention and evokes deep contemplation. Instagram

The cathedral's history is deeply intertwined with the city of Palencia. Dedicated to Saint Antolín, the patron saint of the city, its origins trace back to the discovery of his relics in the crypt by King Wamba. Instagram The annual Fiestas de San Antolín on September 2nd celebrate this connection, drawing crowds and adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the city. TikTokInstagram

Despite some critics noting 'ghastly bling bling' in certain side chapels, the overall artistic value is undeniable. The cathedral serves as a repository of religious and historical artifacts, offering a comprehensive look into the region's past. The small gallery of artwork is well worth exploring, featuring pieces that have been preserved in excellent condition due to diligent maintenance. Reddit

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