Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda, Logroño

Cathedral in Logroño

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Josu Mendicute

Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda is the spiritual heart of Logroño, rising above the old town with its unmistakable twin towers. Tucked just a short stroll from the River Ebro, the cathedral has watched pilgrims, merchants, and locals pass its doors for centuries. Construction began in the 15th century and continued into the 18th, leaving a blend of late Gothic bones and richly Baroque flourishes that give the church its distinctive character. The façade, framed by “the twins” and their bells, is especially striking at dusk when the stone glows golden and the towers stand out against the sky.

Step inside and the bustle of the city melts away. High vaults, chapels lit by candles, and an array of altarpieces and religious art create a calm, contemplative atmosphere. It is here that you really feel how closely Logroño's story is tied to the Camino de Santiago and the wider history of La Rioja. Whether you are a pilgrim collecting a stamp, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious visitor, the cathedral quickly proves why it is one of the must-see places in Logroño.

History and Significance of Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda
Things to See and Do in Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda
How to Get to Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda
Practical Tips on Visiting Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda
Where to Stay close to Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda
Is Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda
Nearby Attractions to Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

History and Significance of Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

The origins of Santa María de la Redonda go back to a much earlier church on this site, but the current building took shape between the 15th and 18th centuries. As Logroño grew in importance on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago, its main church needed to reflect that status. What began as a Gothic structure was gradually expanded and transformed, with later centuries adding chapels, altarpieces, and, eventually, the exuberant Baroque façade and twin towers that define the cathedral today.

Despite its name, the cathedral is not literally round; “la Redonda” probably refers to an earlier, more rounded footprint or to how the original church stood slightly apart from surrounding streets. Over time, Santa María de la Redonda became a co-cathedral of the Diocese of Calahorra y La Calzada-Logroño, sharing episcopal status with other historic churches in La Rioja. That co-cathedral title underscores Logroño's role as both a regional centre and a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, where faith, hospitality, and trade have always been intertwined.

The twin towers, affectionately known as “las gemelas,” are among the finest Baroque features in the city. Their elaborate decoration, niches, and crown-like tops turn them into vertical landmarks visible from across Logroño and from the Ebro bridges. Together with the richly framed main entrance, they send a clear message: this is a place of importance, both spiritually and civically. For many visitors, the first glimpse of the towers from Puente de Piedra feels like a welcome into a city where history is still very much part of daily life, and the cathedral remains one of the top sights in Logroño.

Things to See and Do in Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

Start at the main façade and take a moment to appreciate the two towers up close. Each is slightly different in detail, but together they form a symmetrical “gate” into the old town, with sculptural decoration, balustrades, and bell openings catching the light. If you visit on the hour, you may hear the bells ringing out across the rooftops-a reminder that this is still a living place of worship, not just an architectural monument.

Inside, wander slowly down the nave and along the side aisles to take in the chapels. Look for carved wooden altarpieces, painted panels, and devotional statues that span several centuries. The mix of styles-late Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and later additions-tells a story of continuous use and renewal. The main altar area is especially impressive, with its gilded details and vertical lines drawing your eye upward. When services are not in progress, the quieter chapels offer a chance to sit, think, or simply enjoy the cool, stone-built calm away from the busy pinchos streets nearby.

If you are walking the Camino de Santiago, the cathedral is an important stop for many pilgrims, both spiritually and practically. You can often get your credential stamped here, and the surrounding streets are full of cafés and bakeries that make it a natural pause point. Even if you are not on the Camino, you may find yourself absorbed in the rhythm of people coming and going, lighting candles, or simply stepping inside for a moment of quiet. In that sense, Santa María de la Redonda is not just a building but a small, lived-in crossroads of stories, and a highlight of any walking tour of Logroño.

How to Get to Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

The cathedral sits right in the historic centre of Logroño, a short walk from Puente de Piedra and the main pedestrian streets. Once you are in the Old Town, simply follow signs or head toward the twin towers that rise above the surrounding rooftops; the cathedral is located on a central square, making it easy to find on foot.

If you are arriving by air, you might fly into Logroño-Agoncillo Airport or, more commonly, into larger nearby airports such as Bilbao or Zaragoza, then continue by road or public transport to Logroño. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Logroño on Booking.com. From there, the cathedral is an easy walk from most central hotels and from the riverfront.

Logroño's railway station has regular connections to cities like Madrid, Zaragoza, and other regional hubs.Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. From the station, it typically takes around 15-20 minutes on foot to reach the Old Town; buses and taxis are also available if you prefer.

If you are driving, major roads and motorways link Logroño with the rest of La Rioja and northern Spain.If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Park in one of the public car parks near the centre, as the streets around the cathedral are largely pedestrianised or restricted; from the car park, it is just a few minutes’ walk through atmospheric old streets to the cathedral square.

Practical Tips on Visiting Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

Suggested tips: Combine your visit with a stroll over Puente de Piedra and a tapas stop on Calle Laurel to get a full taste of Logroño's historic and culinary sides.
Best time to visit: Late morning or late afternoon are ideal for both interior visits and exterior photos; evenings can be especially atmospheric when the towers are lit.
Entrance fee: Free
Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Official website: https://laredonda.org/
How long to spend: Plan on 30-60 minutes to explore the interior, appreciate the façade, and sit for a moment in the square outside.
Accessibility: The main entrance is relatively level, but some interior areas may have steps; check locally if you require step-free access or assistance.
Facilities: There are no extensive visitor facilities inside, but cafés, shops, and restrooms are available in the surrounding streets and nearby squares.
Photography tip: For exterior shots, step back into the square or toward nearby streets to capture the full height of the twin towers; inside, use natural light and be mindful of services and other visitors.
Guided tours: Some city tours and Camino-focused visits include the cathedral, offering extra context on its art, architecture, and role in Logroño’s history.
Nearby food options: The Old Town around the cathedral is full of bars and restaurants; Calle Laurel and neighbouring streets are perfect for pinchos and a glass of Rioja after your visit.

Where to Stay close to Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

Staying near the cathedral puts you right at the heart of Logroño’s historic centre, with the main sights and food streets just steps away. For a stylish base in a renovated historic building, Hotel Calle Mayor offers boutique comfort only a short walk from the cathedral square. If you prefer a modern hotel close to both the old town and shopping areas, NH Logroño Herencia Rioja is a solid option within easy strolling distance of the cathedral. Travellers looking for a practical, central stay might choose Hotel Condes de Haro, which makes it simple to reach Santa María de la Redonda, Puente de Piedra, and Calle Laurel on foot.

Is Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda Worth Visiting?

Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda is absolutely worth visiting, whether you are in Logroño for the wine, the Camino, or a wider tour of La Rioja. Its twin Baroque towers create one of the city's most recognisable silhouettes, while the interior offers a cool, contemplative contrast to the lively streets outside. Add in its role as a co-cathedral, its deep ties to regional history, and its location right at the heart of the old town, and it becomes clear that a stop here adds depth and meaning to your time in Logroño.

FAQs for Visiting Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

Do I need a ticket to visit the cathedral?
In most cases, entry to the main church is free, though donations are welcome and special areas or tours may have a small charge.

Can I take photos inside the cathedral?
Photography without flash is often permitted outside of services, but it is best to check signs at the entrance and be respectful of worshippers.

Is the cathedral open during mass times?
Yes, but during mass visitors are expected to remain quiet and avoid walking around or taking photos; sightseeing is better done between services.

How far is the cathedral from Puente de Piedra?
It is only a few minutes’ walk through the Old Town, making it easy to visit both in a single short stroll.

Is the cathedral suitable for visitors with limited mobility?
The immediate area is largely flat and pedestrian, but some thresholds or steps may be present; check locally for the most accessible entrance and assistance if needed.

Nearby Attractions to Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

Puente de Piedra - Logroño's iconic stone bridge over the River Ebro, marking the Camino de Santiago entrance to the city.
Calle Laurel - Famous pinchos street packed with bars and local flavours, just a short walk from the cathedral.
Museo de La Rioja - Regional museum housed in a historic palace, showcasing the history and culture of La Rioja.
Plaza del Mercado - Lively square by the cathedral, often hosting terraces and small events, perfect for soaking up local atmosphere.
Parque del Ebro - Riverside park offering walking and cycling paths along the river, with occasional views back toward the Old Town and cathedral towers.

The Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Logroño!

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