Santa María del Coro Church
País Vasco
The Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus is a Baroque Roman Catholic minor basilica located in the historic "Parte Vieja" (Old Town) of San Sebastián, Basque Country, Spain. Completed in 1774, it stands on the site of an earlier Romanesque church built in the 12th and 13th centuries, later expanded in Gothic-Renaissance style. The basilica's architecture uniquely combines Baroque, Gothic, Churrigueresque, and Neoclassical elements, highlighted by a magnificent Baroque façade with Rococo details. The main nave is a vast hall measuring 48 by 33 meters, divided into three naves supported by six octagonal pillars reaching 15 meters to their capitals, with a central dome soaring 27 meters high. The altar is dedicated to the Virgin of the Chorus, the patron saint of the city alongside Saint Sebastian. Inside, visitors can admire the classical-style altarpieces by Diego de Villanueva and Francisco Azurmendi, a semicircular choir stall crafted by Francisco Bocente y Mendía, and a notable romantic Cavaillé-Coll organ dating from 1863, whose façade preserves the appearance of an older Baroque organ. The basilica's façade features a sculpted figure of the martyred Saint Sebastian, papal symbols affirming its minor basilica status, and the city's coat of arms crowning the building. It remains a vital cultural and religious landmark, embodying centuries of San Sebastián's spiritual and artistic heritage.
Planifiez votre voyage en Espagne avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: The best time to visit the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus is during the morning or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons, especially for guided tours. Visitors can benefit from discounts for students, seniors, and groups. The church is located in San Sebastián's Old Town, easily accessible on foot, and close to other attractions, making it ideal to combine with a walking tour of the historic district.
Faits intéressants
- •The basilica's central dome reaches a height of 27 meters, making it a prominent feature in San Sebastián's skyline.
- •Its main altar houses a wooden statue of the Virgin of the Chorus, dating from the 15th or 16th century, notable for its serene expression and dark complexion.
- •The romantic Cavaillé-Coll organ inside the basilica dates back to 1863 and retains the façade of an older Baroque organ.
- •The basilica's façade includes a sculpted figure of Saint Sebastian, reflecting the city's devotion to this martyr saint.
- •The church was declared a minor basilica in 1973, a papal honor recognizing its importance.
Histoire
The basilica stands on the site of a former Romanesque church built in the 12th and 13th centuries by the Kings of Navarre.
Between 1522 and 1560, it was expanded in Gothic-Renaissance style under the Habsburgs.
In 1688, an explosion in a nearby castle's powder magazine severely damaged the church.
Reconstruction began in 1743, following designs by architects Pedro Ignacio Lizardi and Miguel de Salazar, preserving the original Gothic layout and orientation.
The city of San Sebastián was largely burned in 1813 during the Peninsular War, but the street leading to the basilica was spared.
The church was elevated to the status of minor basilica on February 12, 1973.
Guide du lieu
Main Nave1774
A vast hall measuring 48 by 33 meters, divided into three naves and supported by six octagonal pillars reaching 15 meters high. The central dome soars 27 meters above, creating a grand and uplifting space.
Main Altar15th-16th century
Dedicated to the Virgin of the Chorus, the altar features a wooden statue from the 15th or 16th century, renowned for its gentle expression and dark complexion. It is a focal point of devotion in the basilica.
Altarpieces
Classical-style altarpieces created by Diego de Villanueva and Francisco Azurmendi adorn the basilica's interior, showcasing exquisite artistry from the Baroque period.
Choir Stall
A semicircular choir seating area crafted by Francisco Bocente y Mendía, notable for its elegant design and acoustics, located at the rear of the basilica.
Cavaillé-Coll Organ1863
A romantic organ built in 1863 by the famous Cavaillé-Coll workshop, featuring the façade of an older Baroque organ, renowned for its rich tonal quality.
Façade and Main Entrance1774
The Baroque façade includes a sculpted figure of Saint Sebastian, papal symbols indicating its minor basilica status, and the coat of arms of San Sebastián crowning the building, creating a visually striking entrance.