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Burgos Cathedral
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The Cathedral of Santa María de Burgos is an outstanding jewel of Spanish Gothic architecture and the only Spanish cathedral to hold UNESCO World Heritage status independently of its surroundings. Construction began in 1221 by order of King Ferdinand III of Castile and was strongly influenced by French Gothic models, such as the cathedrals of Paris or Reims. Over the centuries, the cathedral was enriched with late Gothic and Renaissance elements, giving it an unmistakable, highly detailed appearance, notably characterized by its intricate, openwork spires. At the center of the cathedral, beneath a magnificent star-vaulted dome, lies the tomb of the Spanish national hero Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, better known as El Cid, and his wife, Doña Jimena.
- Location: Galicia, Spain
- Top sights: Cathedral of Santa Maria · Palacio de Castilfalé · Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari
- Nearby: Ezcaray (57 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 16 | 19 | 19 | 16 | 12 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 64 | 51 | 59 | 63 | 55 | 45 | 25 | 25 | 35 | 68 | 78 | 63 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Burgos Cathedral is open to visitors and can be explored both inside and outside. The entrance ticket includes access to the ornate chapels and the museum.
Typical hours
The cathedral typically opens daily at 9:30 AM and closes at 6:30 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays and holidays. Last admission is about 30 minutes before closing.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed inside the cathedral, except in areas with special exhibits. Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted.
Time needed
For a thorough visit of the cathedral, allow 1.5 to 2 hours. If you are interested in art and funerary monuments, you can easily spend 3 hours.
Combine with
The cathedral is in the historic center of Burgos, which also features the Museum of Human Evolution and the old town. A walk along the Arlanzón River is also recommended.
Getting there
The cathedral is centrally located, easily reachable on foot from the train station and most hotels. Parking garages are nearby, and public transport stops close by.
Insider tip
Book your ticket online to avoid waiting at the ticket office. Also visit the cloister, which is often less crowded and features a peaceful atmosphere.
Geography
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Burgos Cathedral (10)
Museo del Retablo🏛 museum
Museum in Burgos, Spain.
Consulado del Mar🏛 museum
Building in Burgos Province, Spain.
Iglesia de San Esteban
Cultural property in Burgos, Spain.
Portada de la iglesia de Villaverde Peñahorada
Portal of a disappeared Gothic church in Villaverde Peñahorada.
Rollo
Medieval pillory or judicial column in Burgos.
CAB🏛 museum
Museum in Burgos.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which famous hero is buried here?
Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, known as El Cid, and his wife Jimena.
Is it a UNESCO World Heritage site?
Yes, it is the only Spanish cathedral to hold this title individually.
What is the 'Papamoscas'?
An 18th-century mechanical figure that opens its mouth and rings a bell on the hour.
How long did the construction take?
Construction began in 1221 and was not definitively completed until 1567.
Are there discounts for pilgrims?
Yes, pilgrims with an official credential receive a discounted entry price.
Burgos Cathedral: where is it located?
Burgos Cathedral is located in Galicia, Spain.
Burgos Cathedral: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cathedral of Santa Maria, Palacio de Castilfalé, Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari.
Burgos Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Burgos Cathedral: why is it worth visiting?
The Cathedral of Santa María de Burgos is an outstanding jewel of Spanish Gothic architecture and the only Spanish cathedral to hold UNESCO World Heritage status independently of its surroundings.
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