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Temples #22 in Zaragoza

Basílica of Santa Engracia Church

4.6 · 2,005 reviews
A quiet place for reflection.
Basílica of Santa Engracia Church, C. de Tomás Castellano, 1, Casco Antiguo, 50001 Zaragoza, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The façade is considered one of the finest examples of Plateresque stonework in Aragon.

2

The crypt houses two 4th-century Paleo-Christian sarcophagi made of white marble, likely imported from Rome.

3

The site was historically known as the 'Monasterio de las Santas Masas' due to the discovery of remains of martyrs.

4

The church suffered heavy damage during the Siege of Zaragoza in 1808, leaving only the main portal largely intact.

5

Jerónimo de Zurita, a prominent 16th-century Spanish historian and archivist, is buried within the basilica.

Overview

The Basílica of Santa Engracia is a historic church in Zaragoza, Spain, built on the site of a 4th-century early Christian cemetery. The current structure, dating primarily from the 16th century, features a notable Plateresque façade carved by Gil Morlanes. Beneath the main altar lies a crypt containing the remains of Saint Engratia and several martyrs from the city's Roman period. The church serves as a final resting place for several historical figures, including the tomb of Jerónimo de Zurita. Its architecture integrates Gothic elements with the decorative stone work characteristic of the Aragonese Renaissance. The interior houses an altar dedicated to the Santa Engracia relics, which were recovered during the 14th-century excavation of the site. The church maintains its function as an active site of Catholic worship in the Casco Antiguo district.

Photo spot

Directly in front of the main portal on C. de Tomás Castellano to capture the details of the Plateresque stone carving.

Insider tips

Descend to the crypt to view the ancient Roman-era sarcophagi.

Take time to examine the intricate carvings on the main entrance façade, which depict religious scenes and heraldry.

Maintain silence, as the church remains an active space for prayer and services.

What to avoid

Attempting to visit during daily mass, as sightseeing is restricted; entering through side doors intended for staff.

Good to know

Sightseeing access is restricted during daily liturgical services.

Etiquette

Shoulders and knees must be covered; avoid photography during active religious services.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Mid-morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and conflict with scheduled masses.
Address
Basílica of Santa Engracia Church, C. de Tomás Castellano, 1, Casco Antiguo, 50001 Zaragoza, Spain
41.649, -0.883
Get directions
Details
Architectural stylePlateresque Renaissance
Key feature4th-century Paleo-Christian crypt

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid-morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and conflict with scheduled masses..

Directly in front of the main portal on C. de Tomás Castellano to capture the details of the Plateresque stone carving.

Close by you'll find Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Aljafería Palace, Puerta del Carmen.