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Temples

Cathedral Santa Maria de la Huerta

4.6 · 848 reviews
Quiet and historically contemplative
Cathedral Santa Maria de la Huerta, Pl. la Seo, 50500 Tarazona, Zaragoza, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The cathedral was closed for 26 years for restoration work between 1985 and 2011.

2

The restoration revealed high-quality Renaissance murals hidden behind Baroque altars for centuries.

3

The building features a unique blend of Gothic, Mudejar, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles.

4

The exterior bell tower is a distinct example of the Mudejar brickwork tradition found in Zaragoza province.

5

The cathedral is built on a site that has archaeological layers dating back to Roman occupation.

6

The interior is famous for its vibrant polychrome ceilings that were rediscovered during the recent cleanup.

Overview

The Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Huerta in Tarazona is a unique hybrid building that merges French Gothic structure with the Mudejar style of the Iberian Peninsula. Following a comprehensive multi-decadal restoration that concluded in 2011, the interior highlights the decorative brickwork and plaster molding typical of Aragonese Mudejar architecture. The cathedral occupies the site of a former Roman basilica and retains remnants of 13th-century Gothic foundations. The facade incorporates Renaissance and Baroque elements added during later modifications. Its interior boasts an elaborate collection of murals and painted vaulting discovered during the 20th-century restoration process. The cathedral stands as a testament to the intersection of Christian and Islamic design traditions in the Ebro Valley.

Photo spot

The view of the bell tower from the narrow streets of the old town looking upward.

Insider tips

Look for the distinct difference in brickwork patterns on the exterior tower to identify the Mudejar craftsmanship.

Prioritize viewing the mural paintings in the side chapels which were lost to history for centuries.

Check the official website for guided tour availability, as some areas are only accessible with a guide.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to photograph the interior during religious services or ceremonies.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays; often closes for short periods during the midday siesta.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet demeanor; modest attire covering shoulders and knees is expected inside the temple.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Morning, to catch the light hitting the Mudejar brickwork on the exterior.
Address
Cathedral Santa Maria de la Huerta, Pl. la Seo, 50500 Tarazona, Zaragoza, Spain
41.903, -1.725
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleGothic-Mudejar hybrid
Key featureRestored Renaissance mural paintings

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Morning, to catch the light hitting the Mudejar brickwork on the exterior..

The view of the bell tower from the narrow streets of the old town looking upward.

Close by you'll find Pradiel Park, Teatro Bellas Artes, Bishop Palace.