Church of San Benito el Real, Catholic church in Valladolid, Spain
The Church of San Benito el Real is a house of prayer with three naves of equal height, ending in polygonal apses and built entirely from cut stone blocks. The structure combines Isabelline architectural style with the practical needs of a large worship space.
The building was constructed between 1499 and 1515 on the site of the former Royal Alcázar of Valladolid. The facade was later redesigned in the early 1500s by Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón and continues to define the structure's appearance today.
The name refers to Saint Benedict and the Benedictine community that once lived here. This heritage is still visible today in the ornate choir stalls and elaborate altarpiece, which show how important this religious order was to the city.
Entry is free of charge, and the building is located about 200 meters north of Plaza Mayor. It can be reached in a few minutes on foot from the main square, offering a quieter setting away from busier areas.
An iron grille crafted by Tomás Celma in 1571 spans the full width of the church interior. This remarkable work divides the space into two sections and shows the skilled metalworking of that era.
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