Santander Cathedral

Santander Cathedral is a Gothic building with two churches stacked vertically, connected by a cloister and interior passages. The upper church serves as the main worship space while the lower one functions as a crypt with burial chambers and religious reliquaries.

Construction started in the late 12th century on the site of a former abbey and the building gained cathedral status in 1754. The structure has undergone restoration and modifications over the centuries while remaining a key religious center for the region.

The cathedral preserves the tomb of Marcelino Menéndez Pelayo, a prominent intellectual who made substantial contributions to Spanish literature and historical studies.

The cathedral sits at Plaza del Obispo José Eguino y Trecu and opens daily to visitors. It serves as a significant stop along the Camino del Norte pilgrimage route and is centrally located within Santander's old town.

The lower church holds two silver reliquaries shaped like heads that contain the skulls of Santander's patron saints. These unusual vessels represent an uncommon example of liturgical craftsmanship and remain a distinctive feature visitors encounter today.

Location: Santander

Inception: 12 century

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Part of: Camino del Norte

Address: Plaza Obispo José Eguino y Trecu, 1, 39002 Santander, Cantabria, Spain

Phone: +34942748115

Website: https://diocesisdesantander.com/catedral-2

GPS coordinates: 43.46056,-3.80750

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04