Catedral de Granada y Capilla Real
A Renaissance complex beside the Capilla Real, begun in 1505, which houses the tombs of the Reyes Católicos Isabel and Fernando.
Four centuries of construction and kings
The Capilla Real was born of a royal charter signed by the Reyes Católicos on 13 September 1504, and was built between 1505 and 1517 under Enrique Egas in a late-Gothic style with Renaissance touches. Alongside it, the Catedral de la Encarnación was begun in 1523 to an initially Gothic design by Egas that Diego de Siloé converted to full Renaissance from 1528 onwards, with a five-nave plan and an imposing circular Capilla Mayor. The main façade, with its Baroque lines, is the work of Alonso Cano, who was involved from 1667. Construction of the cathedral stretched over more than 180 years, which accounts for the mixture of architectural languages visible as you walk through it today.
Tombs, crypt and altarpieces
In the transept of the Capilla Real stand two pairs of Carrara marble tombs. The one of Isabel and Fernando was carved by the Italian Domenico Fancelli, considered his masterpiece; the tomb of Juana I and Felipe el Hermoso is the work of the Spaniard Bartolomé Ordóñez. Beneath them, in a plain crypt, lie five lead coffins containing the remains of both royal couples and the Infante Miguel de la Paz, grandson of the Reyes Católicos. The sacristy-museum holds Isabel's sceptre and crown, Fernando's sword, and Flemish panel paintings from the royal collection including works by Memling, Botticelli and Bouts. In the adjoining Cathedral, the height of the Capilla Mayor and the Baroque organ are particularly striking.
How to visit and ticket prices
The two monuments have separate entrances. The Capilla Real is entered from Calle Oficios, a pedestrianised street beside the old Lonja; the general admission costs around 7 euros, with a reduced rate of around 5 euros and free entry for children; a complimentary audio guide is available to download. It opens Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:30, with reduced hours on Sundays. The Cathedral has its own separate admission of around 7 euros, rising to 10 euros during the Kerygma exhibition in 2026 (8 May to 28 November). Allow 60 to 90 minutes to see both spaces properly. The best time to visit is first thing in the morning, before tour groups arrive; photography of the tombs is not permitted. It is right in the city centre, a short walk from the Alcaicería and the Gran Vía.
Frequently asked questions
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