Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri - Church
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Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri

4.6
·513 reviews·València, Spain

An 18th-century Baroque gem in Valencia's Old Town, famed for its impressive altar and Roman architectural influences.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri - Church

Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An 18th-century Baroque gem in Valencia's Old Town, famed for its impressive altar and Roman architectural influences.

4.6
(513 reviews)

"Quite impressive monument, more than expected, located right in the city center of Valencia."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Respectful Photography

Be aware of mass times; an enthusiastic priest may caution photographers on sacred grounds.

🍽️ Nearby Dining

Enjoy a meal at Church Street restaurant, just behind the church, for a delightful culinary experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baroque Altar

Baroque Altar

Interior

An 18th-century masterpiece, the altar is a stunning example of Baroque artistry and a focal point of the church's interior.

Reddit
Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Built between 1727-1736, this red brick church draws inspiration from Roman Baroque structures, mimicking Rome's Gesù Cathedral.

Reddit
Old Town Charm

Old Town Charm

Old Town, Valencia

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town, with the church serving as a beautiful centerpiece to this historic district.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Photography

Be mindful of services and masses. A zealous priest has been known to scold photographers on church grounds. Check mass schedules before visiting to avoid disruption and ensure you can capture its beauty respectfully. Reddit

Location & Dining

Nestled in the heart of Old Town, this church is a central landmark. Nearby, Church Street restaurant offers delicious food, making it a perfect stop after your visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
After mass hours
Why
Access for visiting and photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

San Felipe De Neri Church at the center of Old Town

📸 Respectful Photography

Be aware of mass times; an enthusiastic priest may caution photographers on sacred grounds. Reddit

🍽️ Nearby Dining

Enjoy a meal at Church Street restaurant, just behind the church, for a delightful culinary experience. Reddit

reddit.com

San Felipe de Neri Church: Old Town

🏛️ Architectural Inspiration

Admire the 18th-century Baroque design, inspired by Rome's Gesù Cathedral. Reddit

📍 City Center Gem

This impressive monument is conveniently located right in the heart of Valencia. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Respectful Photography

Be aware of mass times; an enthusiastic priest may caution photographers on sacred grounds. Reddit

🍽️ Nearby Dining

Enjoy a meal at Church Street restaurant, just behind the church, for a delightful culinary experience. Reddit

🏛️ Architectural Inspiration

Admire the 18th-century Baroque design, inspired by Rome's Gesù Cathedral. Reddit

📍 City Center Gem

This impressive monument is conveniently located right in the heart of Valencia. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(513 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri for its impressive Baroque architecture and stunning altar, noting its well-maintained condition and central location in Valencia's Old Town. Some mention a zealous priest who can be strict about photography during services, and advise checking mass times for access.

"Beautiful church close to the city center. The entrance is free but it can't be visited during mass.

It has a very impressive altar."

Liviu-Cristian Mihon

"18th Century Baroque church that was built between 1727-1736. The architect behind the construction was the mathematician Tomás Vincente Tosca, planner of the urban design of Valencia in the early 1700s. Made out of red brick with inspiration from Rome's baroque structures, it mimics the shape of Rome's Gesú cathedral."

Guyver II

"Impressive architect and design, well maintained and organized."

Zaid Younis

What People Like

Impressive Baroque altar
Well-maintained architecture
Central Old Town location

What People Dislike

Strict photography rules

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The church is centrally located in Valencia's Old Town, making it easily accessible by public transport or on foot. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from other city center attractions. Reddit

Parking in Old Town can be challenging due to narrow streets. It's recommended to use public parking garages located a short walk from the church. Reddit

Wander through the charming streets, discover hidden plazas, and enjoy the local atmosphere. Many shops and cafes are also located in the vicinity. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance to the church is generally free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and altar. Reddit

The church cannot be visited during mass. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire nearby for specific visiting hours outside of religious services. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful. Some visitors have noted a priest who may caution photographers on church grounds, especially during services. Reddit

Information on accessibility can vary. It's recommended to contact the church directly or inquire locally for the most up-to-date details regarding ramps or elevator access. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The church boasts an 18th-century Baroque design, constructed with red brick and inspired by Roman Baroque structures, notably mimicking Rome's Gesù Cathedral. Reddit

The church features a very impressive altar, a key highlight of its Baroque interior design. Reddit

A visit typically takes about 30-60 minutes, allowing time to appreciate the architecture and the altar. You might extend this if you plan to explore the surrounding Old Town. Reddit

Reviews indicate that the church is well-maintained and organized, preserving its historical beauty. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Church Street restaurant, located on the street behind the church, is highly recommended for its delicious food. Reddit

Old Town offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Spanish tapas to international cuisine. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The impressive altar inside and the red brick facade outside are prime subjects. Be mindful of lighting and any restrictions during services. Reddit+1

While generally permitted, some visitors have encountered a priest who discourages photography on church grounds, particularly during mass. Reddit

Weekday mornings often offer softer light and fewer people, making for a more serene photography experience. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri can appreciate its historical significance and impressive altar. While the church itself might not have specific child-focused activities, its location in Old Town offers a pleasant environment for a stroll. The nearby Church Street restaurant is a good option for a family meal. Reddit

It's important to remind children about being quiet and respectful inside a place of worship. Be aware that photography might be restricted or met with a stern word from a priest, so managing expectations for photo opportunities is advisable. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri is a must-see. Its construction between 1727-1736 and its 18th-century Baroque architecture, inspired by Roman styles, offer a rich historical narrative. The influence of mathematician Tomás Vincente Tosca adds another layer of interest. Reddit

Exploring the well-maintained interior, particularly the impressive altar, provides a tangible connection to the past. The church's central location in Old Town also allows for easy integration into a broader historical tour of Valencia. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find the Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri visually appealing, with its striking red brick facade and the ornate Baroque altar inside. The best times for photography are typically weekday mornings when the light is softer and crowds are thinner. Reddit

However, be prepared for potential restrictions. As noted by some visitors, a priest may discourage photography on church grounds, especially during services. It's advisable to be discreet and respectful, prioritizing the sanctity of the place over capturing every shot. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Heritage

The Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri is a significant example of 18th-century Baroque architecture in Valencia. Constructed between 1727 and 1736, its design was influenced by the renowned mathematician Tomás Vincente Tosca, who also played a role in Valencia's urban planning. The church's red brick exterior and its resemblance to Rome's Gesù Cathedral highlight its Roman Baroque inspiration. This historical context makes it a noteworthy monument for architecture enthusiasts. Reddit

Inside, the church features a very impressive altar, which serves as a focal point and showcases the intricate artistry of the Baroque period. The overall design and maintenance of the church have been praised, contributing to its status as a well-preserved historical site. Visitors often remark on its beauty and the sense of history it evokes. Reddit

Its location in the heart of Old Town further enhances its appeal, allowing visitors to easily combine a visit to the church with an exploration of the surrounding historic district. The church stands as a testament to the architectural styles and religious devotion of its era. Reddit

Visitor Etiquette and Experience

Visiting the Church of Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri offers a glimpse into historical religious architecture, but it's important to be aware of visitor etiquette. While the entrance is free, the church cannot be visited during mass. This means checking service times is crucial to ensure you can explore the interior without disruption. Reddit

A unique aspect of visiting, as noted by some, is the presence of a rather spirited priest who has been known to address photographers on church grounds. This suggests a need for discretion and respect when taking photos, especially if services are ongoing or about to begin. Being mindful of the sacred nature of the space is key to a positive experience for everyone. Reddit

Beyond the church itself, the surrounding Old Town provides a charming backdrop. The nearby Church Street restaurant is frequently recommended for its excellent food, making it a convenient and enjoyable dining option after your visit. Reddit

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