Church Of San Salvador, Granada
Church in Granada
The Iglesia del Salvador is one of the most historically significant landmarks in the Albaicín, built directly atop the remains of the neighbourhood's Great Mosque. Blending strict Renaissance Classicism with powerful Moorish influences, it is one of the must-see places in Granada for travellers fascinated by the city's deep blend of cultures. Its preserved mosque courtyard, Mudéjar ceilings, and richly decorated chapels make it often visited on walking tours of Granada, offering a vivid look at how centuries of architecture coexist under one roof.
Walking through its courtyard and horseshoe arches, you can still sense the foundations of the original 13th-century mosque built by the Almohads. Inside, the rebuilt 20th-century church incorporates Renaissance portals, Baroque altarpieces, and Islamic structural elements, creating a unique fusion that reflects Granada’s turbulent religious history.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of the Church Of San Salvador
- Things to See and Do in the Church Of San Salvador
- How to Get to the Church Of San Salvador in Granada
- Practical Tips on Visiting the Church Of San Salvador
- Where to Stay close to the Church Of San Salvador
- Is the Church Of San Salvador Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting the Church Of San Salvador
- Nearby Attractions to Church Of San Salvador
History and Significance of the Church Of San Salvador
The Iglesia del Salvador stands on the site of the main mosque of the Albaicín, one of the most beautiful in al-Andalus. After the Catholic Monarchs conquered Granada in 1492, the mosque was converted into a Christian church and renamed Iglesia de Nuestro Salvador. In 1527 it became a Collegiate Church, an institution tasked with teaching Christianity to the Morisco population-Moors who had converted and were allowed to remain. For years it was one of only two churches in Granada with the right of asylum.
The former mosque's cloister became the place where the so-called sambenitos-penitential garments imposed by the Inquisition-were hung, following their earlier display in the Cathedral. Much of the early Christian structure was rebuilt in 1674 under architect Esteban García, with finishing work by José Granados and Leonardo de Figueroa, producing the current hall-church layout divided into four sections. The colonnades surrounding the mosque's courtyard were restored in the 17th century, and its Mannerist façade remains one of the most unusual examples of this transitional style in Granada.
After the Collegiate moved to another church in 1771, San Salvador became a parish church. It was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War in 1936 and rebuilt in simplified form, though significant original elements-most notably the Renaissance portal by Diego de Siloé and pillars of the mosque-survived.
Things to See and Do in the Church Of San Salvador
The Iglesia del Salvador offers a wealth of architectural and artistic detail. Its Mudéjar ceiling is one of the most impressive in the Albaicín, a reminder of the Moorish artisans who shaped Granada's early buildings. The horseshoe arches, Arab-style ceilings, and large traditional water cistern underline the site's origins as a mosque. It is one of the top attractions in Granada for travellers interested in Islamic architecture preserved within a Christian context.
One of the most extraordinary features is the Patio of Ablutions, the only surviving mosque courtyard in Granada. With its conserved columns, deep well, and atmospheric open space, it provides a rare glimpse into religious life before the Reconquest. Inside, the church features richly decorated side chapels, such as the Chapel of Christ the Helpless, with Baroque murals, and the Sacramental Chapel, home to an enormous altarpiece integrated with an entrance doorway.
Art lovers will appreciate the church’s collection of works by Atanasio Bocanegra, Cano, Juan de Sevilla, Divino Morales, and sculptures by Mora and Pedro Duque Cornejo-including the celebrated Crucified “Lord of the Blood.” A charming Virgin and Child by Diego de Siloé, carved in 1563, is another highlight.
How to Get to the Church Of San Salvador in Granada
The Iglesia del Salvador is located at Placeta del Abad 7, in the heart of the Albaicín. It sits near the upper part of the neighbourhood, surrounded by narrow streets and historic houses.
The nearest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.
Granada's main train station provides easy connections from major cities such as Madrid and Seville. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Because the Albaicín's streets are narrow and restricted, driving is not recommended; park in the city centre and walk or take a bus. To reach it, buses C31, C32, and C34 run regularly from Plaza Nueva into the Albaicín. 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.
Practical Tips on Visiting the Church Of San Salvador
- Suggested tips: Spend time in the Patio of Ablutions-it's the only mosque courtyard still preserved in Granada.
- Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for quieter visits.
- Entrance fee: 1€
- Opening hours: Monday-Saturday, 10am-1pm and 4.30-6.30pm
- Official website:
- How long to spend: Around 30-45 minutes to explore the church, courtyard, and artworks.
- Accessibility: Uneven cobblestones and steps may pose challenges for some visitors.
- Facilities: Small shops and cafés nearby in the Albaicín.
- Photography tip: Capture the horseshoe arches and Mudéjar ceiling details using natural light from the courtyard.
- Guided tours: Many Albaicín tours stop here to explain the transition from mosque to church.
- Nearby food options: Tapas bars line the streets around Placeta del Abad and along Calle Elvira.
Where to Stay close to the Church Of San Salvador
Stay in the heart of the Albaicín for atmospheric nights and easy access to historic landmarks. A top choice is Hotel Santa Isabel La Real, a restored historic house with traditional charm. For excellent views toward the Alhambra, consider Palacio de Santa Inés. Another nearby boutique option is Shine Albayzín, set inside a beautifully restored Renaissance palace.
Is the Church Of San Salvador Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. The Iglesia del Salvador offers a rare combination of Almohad mosque remains, Mudéjar craftsmanship, Renaissance architecture, and Baroque art. As one of the most important religious and historical sites in the Albaicín, it provides a fascinating insight into Granada's layered cultural identity.
What Other Travellers Say...
Iglesia Parroquial de Nuestro Salvador sits in the Albaicín at Pl. del Salvador and is built on the site of the old Great Mosque, where visitors can still see a courtyard, the Patio de las Abluciones, a deep cistern and some columns; the church houses a small parish museum with works rescued from a past fire and pieces by notable period artists, and guests praise its beauty, the informative and friendly parish priest, and recommend stopping by before exploring nearby tapas-filled squares and sunny terraces.
FAQs for Visiting the Church Of San Salvador
Nearby Attractions to Church Of San Salvador
- Mirador de San Nicolás: Granada's most iconic viewpoint overlooking the Alhambra.
- Carrera del Darro: A riverside street filled with historic bridges and buildings.
- Archaeological Museum of Granada: Exhibits Granada's ancient history in a Renaissance mansion.
- Albayzín Walls and Gates: Including Elvira, Monaita, and Arco de las Pesas.
- Alhambra: The famous palace-fortress seen from many viewpoints in the Albaicín.
The Church Of San Salvador appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!
Planning Your Visit
Monday-Saturday, 10am-1pm and 4.30-6.30pm
1€
Nearby Attractions
- Mirador de San Nicolás (0.2) km
Viewing Point - Albaicín (0.2) km
Area - Plaza Larga (0.2) km
Market and Square - Paseo de los Tristes (0.4) km
Park - Palacio de Dar-Al-Horra (0.4) km
Palace - Arab Baths of Granada (0.5) km
Baths - Puerta de los Tablero (0.5) km
Bridge, City Gate and City Walls - Puerta del Bosque (0.5) km
City Gate - Puerta de la Tahona (0.5) km
City Gate - Torre del Cubo (0.5) km
Tower
