Santa María Magdalena Church - Santa María Magdalena in Pueblo Libre, Lima Peru, is the oldest rural church in the city. It was constructed in 1557. And the interior of the church is covered in gold leaf. Santa María Magdalena is steps from Antigua Taberna Queirolo, the oldest restaurant and bar in Lima. It's also less than 100 meters from Boulevard del Criollismo, La Cruz del Viajero (cross of the traveler), National Museum of the Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru (oldest museum in Peru) and Quinta de los Libertadores (Magdalena Palace).
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Santa María Magdalena Church

4.6
·474 reviews·Zaragoza, Spain

A beautiful church known for its stunning Mudéjar tower and ornate gold altars, offering a serene evening experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Beautifully lit atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Santa María Magdalena Church - Santa María Magdalena in Pueblo Libre, Lima Peru, is the oldest rural church in the city. It was constructed in 1557. And the interior of the church is covered in gold leaf. Santa María Magdalena is steps from Antigua Taberna Queirolo, the oldest restaurant and bar in Lima. It's also less than 100 meters from Boulevard del Criollismo, La Cruz del Viajero (cross of the traveler), National Museum of the Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru (oldest museum in Peru) and Quinta de los Libertadores (Magdalena Palace).

Santa María Magdalena Church

Best Time

Evenings

Beautifully lit atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful church known for its stunning Mudéjar tower and ornate gold altars, offering a serene evening experience.

4.6
(474 reviews)

"The church tower is an excellent example of Mudéjar style. Definitely visit in the evening after the siesta because the church is well lit."

Vertical photo
TIP

Find the Hidden Entrance

Don't be fooled by the main facade; walk around the corner to find the actual entrance. :round_pushpin:

Evening Illumination

Visit after siesta to see the church beautifully lit, enhancing its serene ambiance. :city_sunset:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mudéjar Tower

Mudéjar Tower

An exceptional example of Mudéjar architecture, this tower is a must-see for its historical and artistic significance.

Gilded Side Altars

Gilded Side Altars

Discover small, beautiful altars adorned with gold, adding a touch of opulence and devotion to the church's interior.

Evening Ambiance

Evening Ambiance

The church is beautifully illuminated in the evening, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere for visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Evening Visits Recommended

Experience the church's beauty when it's well-lit in the evening. Avoid the midday siesta for a more atmospheric visit. The entrance might be tricky to find, so explore the corners!

Appreciate the Mudéjar Tower

The church tower is a prime example of Mudéjar architecture. While there are no guides, the serene atmosphere and intricate side altars offer a rich experience for all visitors.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Beautifully lit atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@picoca18
40.4K likes • 821.9K views

Find the Hidden Entrance

Don't be fooled by the main facade; walk around the corner to find the actual entrance. :round_pushpin:

Evening Illumination

Visit after siesta to see the church beautifully lit, enhancing its serene ambiance. :city_sunset:

Admire the Gold Altars

The small side altars are stunningly decorated with gold leaf. :sparkles:

Mudéjar Architecture Gem

The church tower is a highlight, showcasing exquisite Mudéjar style. :building_construction:

Tips

from all over the internet

Find the Hidden Entrance

Don't be fooled by the main facade; walk around the corner to find the actual entrance. :round_pushpin:

Evening Illumination

Visit after siesta to see the church beautifully lit, enhancing its serene ambiance. :city_sunset:

Admire the Gold Altars

The small side altars are stunningly decorated with gold leaf. :sparkles:

Mudéjar Architecture Gem

The church tower is a highlight, showcasing exquisite Mudéjar style. :building_construction:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(474 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Santa María Magdalena Church for its beautiful, gold-adorned side altars and its exceptional Mudéjar-style tower. The evening ambiance, enhanced by good lighting, is frequently highlighted as a key reason to visit. While lacking formal guides, the church's serene atmosphere and architectural merits make it a worthwhile experience for locals and tourists alike.

"Very nice church frequently attended by locals. The little alters to each side of the church are very pretty and covered in gold. The church tower is an excel been HR example of mudjehar style. Definitely visit in the evening after the siesta because the church is weel lit. Although there is no audio or text guide, the atmosphere of this small church is worth the visit. The vaulted ceiling is standard. Also, the entrance to the church is not where you might expect, so definitely walk around the corner to find it."

Lukasz Zbylut

"An huge experience have faith or not"

ej as

"Great building, beautifull"

Pekka Tammela

What People Like

Beautiful gold altars
Impressive Mudéjar tower
Evening ambiance

What People Dislike

Entrance can be tricky
No audio/text guide

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The church is located in Zaragoza. Public transport options within the city are generally good. Walking is also a great way to explore the area and discover hidden gems like this church. TikTok

While the church is a significant landmark, its entrance isn't always obvious. Visitors often suggest walking around the corner from the main facade to locate the actual entrance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding tickets is not readily available, but many churches of this nature are free to enter, though donations are often appreciated. It's best to check locally or assume it's free unless otherwise stated. Reddit

The church is best visited in the evening after the siesta when it is well-lit. Specific opening hours can vary, so it's advisable to check locally or plan your visit for the late afternoon or evening. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, many churches are free to enter. Visitors have noted the atmosphere is worth the visit, implying accessibility. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find beautiful little altars covered in gold leaf on each side, a standard vaulted ceiling, and a serene atmosphere. The Mudéjar tower is also a significant architectural feature. Reddit

Currently, there is no audio or text guide available. However, the church's atmosphere and architectural details are considered worth experiencing on their own. Reddit

The church tower is an excellent example of Mudéjar style, a unique architectural blend found in Spain. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's generally respectful to ask for permission or observe if others are taking photos discreetly. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Mudéjar tower offers striking exterior shots. Inside, focus on the intricately decorated gold altars and the overall ambiance, especially when the church is well-lit in the evening. Reddit

Yes, the church is described as being well-lit in the evening, making it an ideal time for photography to capture its atmosphere. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

History & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Mudéjar tower of Santa María Magdalena Church is a must-see. This style is a unique blend of Islamic and Christian influences, offering a glimpse into Spain's rich past. Take time to admire the intricate details and historical significance of this architectural gem. Reddit

Beyond the tower, the gilded side altars inside the church also provide a visual treat, showcasing detailed craftsmanship. Even without formal guides, the church's atmosphere, especially when well-lit in the evening, makes for a compelling and educational visit. Reddit

Local Culture Seekers

This church is 'frequently attended by locals,' offering an authentic glimpse into the community's spiritual life. Visiting in the evening allows you to experience the church when it's beautifully illuminated and often more peaceful, providing a serene escape. Reddit

Don't miss the charming gilded altars tucked away on the sides. While the entrance might require a little exploration around the corner, the effort is rewarded with a genuine local experience and a chance to appreciate a significant piece of Zaragoza's heritage. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance: The Mudéjar Tower

The Santa María Magdalena Church boasts a remarkable tower that stands as a testament to the Mudéjar architectural style. This style, prevalent in Spain, is characterized by its fusion of Islamic and Christian artistic traditions, often incorporating intricate geometric patterns, brickwork, and decorative plasterwork. The tower of Santa María Magdalena is frequently highlighted as an 'excellent example' of this unique heritage, making it a key point of interest for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Reddit

Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical context of the tower. While the interior offers its own charm, the exterior architectural elements, particularly the tower, are often cited as a primary draw. Its presence adds significant cultural and historical value to the church and the surrounding area. Reddit

Experiencing the Interior Ambiance

The interior of Santa María Magdalena Church, though described as having a 'standard vaulted ceiling,' offers a deeply atmospheric experience. Visitors frequently mention the beauty of the little altars situated on each side of the church, which are notably covered in gold. These gilded details add a touch of opulence and spiritual focus to the space. Reddit

Despite the lack of formal guides, the church's ambiance is a significant draw. Many find the experience 'huge' and worthwhile, whether they are religious or not. The recommendation to visit in the evening after the siesta is crucial, as the church is described as being 'well lit' during this time, enhancing its serene and captivating mood. TikTokReddit

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