Iglesia de Santa Marina

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The church was built over the site of a former mosque, a common practice in post-Reconquista Seville.

2. 2

   Its bell tower, or belfry, was constructed atop a former Almohad minaret.

3. 3

   The 1936 fire destroyed many of the original interior artworks and altarpieces, leading to a significant restoration effort.

4. 4

   It is one of the few churches in Seville to maintain a distinctly clear Mudejar ground plan despite centuries of modifications.

5. 5

   The church functions as the base for the Resurrection Brotherhood, which performs the final procession of Seville's Holy Week.

Overview

Iglesia de Santa Marina is one of the oldest churches in Seville, dating its origins back to the 13th century following the Reconquista. It represents a significant example of Mudejar-Gothic architecture, characterized by its austere brick facade and prominent pointed arches. The building underwent extensive reconstruction following the Lisbon earthquake in 1755 and a severe fire in 1936. It serves as the canonical seat of the Hermandad de la Resurrección, which oversees the church's preservation and religious activities. The interior retains traces of its original structure, including a semicircular apse and ribbed vaulting in the chancel. Its location in the San Luis neighborhood places it within a district historically dense with medieval religious architecture.

Insider tips

• Observe the exterior brickwork from the opposite side of the street to fully appreciate the classic Mudejar proportions.

• Check local religious calendars, as the church may have restricted access during preparations for Holy Week processions.