Church of Santa María del Puerto, Santoña

The Church of Santa María del Puerto is a Gothic structure with three naves held up by circular pillars and features decorated arches framing the main entrance. Inside, visitors find baroque side chapels, apostle busts, and medieval baptismal fonts carved with religious scenes.

The site began as a Benedictine monastery in the 8th century, but underwent major reconstruction during the 16th century. The renovation focused heavily on rebuilding the apse and reshaping the overall structure.

The Virgin of Puerto statue holds deep meaning for local fishermen and sailors, carried through the waters in a procession every September 8th. This tradition reveals how the church remains woven into the daily spiritual life of the coastal community.

The church is open to visitors during standard hours and sits in the town center of Santoña, making it easy to reach on foot. The interior is straightforward to navigate, though visitors should remain quiet and respectful, especially during active services.

The vault contains decorative elements related to the Age of Discovery that connect the town's maritime heritage to the era of exploration. These ceiling details serve as a reminder of Santoña's significance as a port during the age of seafaring.