Church of Santa María de La Encarnación, Granada

Church in Granada

Church of Santa Maria de La Encarnacion Alhambra 3
Church of Santa Maria de La Encarnacion Alhambra 3

The Church of Santa María de La Encarnación is a Renaissance-era church located inside the Alhambra Complex, set directly over the foundations of the former Great Mosque. Though architecturally simple, the church carries layers of symbolism, marking the shift from Islamic to Christian rule in Granada, and is one of the things to do in Granada for travellers exploring the full story of the Alhambra. Its quiet setting contrasts with the ornate palaces nearby, offering a moment of reflection amid centuries of cultural transformation.

Completed between 1581 and 1618, the church was built in a restrained Herrerian style, far plainer than originally envisioned. Inside, the impressive 1671 Baroque altarpiece dominates the space, framed by large Solomonic columns and sculptures by Alonso de Mena. It is often visited on walking tours of Granada that explore the religious and architectural transitions of the Alhambra after the Reconquista.

History and Significance of the Church of Santa María de La Encarnación

The site of the church holds significant historical importance, as it replaces the Alhambra's Great Mosque, once the spiritual heart of the palace-city. After the Christian conquest of Granada in 1492, many of the Alhambra's religious buildings were repurposed or replaced, and by the late 16th century construction began on this church as part of the monumental remodelling of the complex.

Architect Ambrosio de Vico completed the building in 1618, drawing inspiration from the works of Herrera and Juan de Orea, though using a simpler approach. The Latin-cross floorplan, side chapels, and restrained stone façades reflect the Counter-Reformation aesthetic of clarity and sobriety. The church’s interior soon received a grand Baroque makeover, including its towering altarpiece and devotional sculptures that remain its most compelling features today.

A marble pillar in front of the church commemorates two monks who preached Christianity within the Moorish kingdom. Tradition says they were executed here under Sultan Mohammed V, tying the church to both the historical tensions and the deep spiritual heritage of the site.

Things to See and Do in the Church of Santa María de La Encarnación

Inside the church, the highlight is the Baroque altarpiece from 1671, richly carved and framed by twisting Solomonic columns. The sculptures of St. Ursula and St. Susan by Alonso de Mena flank the central Crucified Christ, offering a vivid example of Granada’s Counter-Reformation artistry.

Another treasure is the Virgin of Anguish, sculpted by Torcuato Ruiz del Peral between 1750 and 1760. Each Easter, this statue is carried through the Alhambra on a Granada-style silver throne decorated with motifs inspired by the Court of the Lions.

Outside, the marble pillar with its plaque offers a sombre historical moment, commemorating the martyrdom story associated with Mohammed V. It adds depth to the setting and brings visitors closer to the layered religious history of the Alhambra.

How to Get to the Church of Santa María de La Encarnación

Visitors typically reach Granada via Granada Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

For those arriving by train, Granada’s railway station offers connections from major Spanish cities. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Drivers can access Alhambra parking areas and walk through the complex to reach the church. 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.

The church sits within the upper area of the Alhambra Complex, close to the Palacio de Carlos V and the Nasrid Palaces.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Church of Santa María de La Encarnación

  • Suggested tips: Visit the church after exploring the Nasrid Palaces for a quieter, reflective experience.
  • Best time to visit: Late morning or mid-afternoon when the light enhances the interior carvings.
  • Entrance fee:
  • Opening hours:
  • Official website: https://www.alhambra-patronato.es/en/edificios-lugares/st-mary-church
  • How long to spend: Around 10-15 minutes.
  • Accessibility: The area around the church is relatively flat, though some cobbles may be uneven.
  • Facilities: Nearby cafés and services are around the Palacio de Carlos V.
  • Photography tip: Capture the contrast between the plain exterior and the richly adorned altarpiece.
  • Guided tours: Many Alhambra tours include the church as a historical highlight.
  • Nearby food options: Options are available outside the monument near Cuesta de Gomérez and Plaza Nueva.

Where to Stay close to the Church of Santa María de La Encarnación

The Parador de Granada offers unmatched proximity, being located within the Alhambra grounds. A comfortable option near the Generalife is Eurostars Washington Irving. For a boutique stay near the Darro River with easy access to the forest paths, choose Hotel Casa 1800 Granada.

Is the Church of Santa María de La Encarnación Worth Visiting?

Yes. While modest compared to the Nasrid architecture that surrounds it, the church offers valuable insight into the post-Reconquista transformation of the Alhambra. Its dramatic Baroque altarpiece and important sculptures make it a worthwhile stop for those seeking the full historical and cultural arc of the complex.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (236)

Iglesia de Santa María de la Encarnación - Alhambra sits by the Royal Gardens of the Alhambra and occupies a former mosque, now a compact Catholic church featuring an elaborate Baroque-style altar and striking interior architecture with numerous religious images; visitors say entry is free (donations optional) but the small church can close early or be closed at times, and the exterior is plain and recently restored looking.

Vivien Travel guide
6 months ago
"Simple mini Church in Granada. The Church is near the Royal Gardens of Alhambra. Free to visit . Closes early (around 16:00)"
Can Dabagoglu
a month ago
"Despite being small , interior architecture is splendid and oldest church in city ! Very well worth to visit and it is no fee access !"
AW M
10 months ago
"Great former mosque turned into a very good Catholic Church with many nice Catholic idols. Worth a stop when you are in the Alhambra area. It is freewith a box for optional donations...."

FAQs for Visiting Church of Santa María de La Encarnación

It was constructed over the site of the Alhambra’s former Great Mosque.
Although its exterior is plain, the Baroque altarpiece and sculptures inside are impressive.
Yes, access is included.
It is occasionally used for ceremonies, particularly during Easter.
Around 10-15 minutes is enough to appreciate its key features.

Nearby Attractions to Church of Santa María de La Encarnación

The Church of Santa María de La Encarnación appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

Moira & Andy
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!

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Church of Santa Maria de la Alhambra Calle Real de la Alhambra, 1-22 18009 Granada Spain
Granada: 1 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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