Convento de Clarisas del Corpus Christi, Segovia

Convent in Segovia

Segovia Convento de Clarisas del Corpus Christi
Segovia Convento de Clarisas del Corpus Christi
CC BY-SA 4.0 / JoJan

Tucked into Corpus Christi Square, Corpus Christi Church is one of those Segovia places you could walk past without realising what you're looking at-until you step through the courtyard and the space opens into a former synagogue shaped by horseshoe arches and octagonal columns. It's quiet, intimate, and beautifully specific to the city's Jewish Quarter, offering a kind of close-up history that feels very different from Segovia's grand plazas and skyline monuments.

What makes the visit memorable is the sense of continuity: a sacred space that has changed purpose over centuries, yet still carries its original architectural language. If you're collecting small, meaningful stops that deepen the city beyond the big landmarks, this spot is one of the must-see places in Segovia, and it fits naturally into a walking tour of Segovia because it sits right where the old neighbourhood lanes encourage you to slow down and look closer.

History and Significance of the Corpus Christi Church

This building was once the main synagogue of Segovia’s medieval Jewish community, standing at the spiritual centre of a neighbourhood that helped shape the city’s identity for centuries. In the early 15th century, the synagogue was confiscated and later became the church of the Convent of the Corpus Christi Order of St. Clare, a transformation that mirrors the wider religious and social shifts that reshaped Castile at the time.

Architecturally, the interior still reads like a synagogue: a three-nave layout divided by horseshoe arches resting on octagonal columns, with a rhythm and geometry that feels unmistakably Andalusi-influenced and distinctly Iberian. The fact that you enter through a courtyard also echoes older patterns of access and privacy, reinforcing the sense that you’re stepping into a space designed for a different kind of communal life than a typical parish church.

A major fire in 1899 caused severe damage, prompting early restoration work in the early 20th century. The most significant conservation effort came in 2004, when restoration focused on recovering key decorative elements-plasterwork, capitals, and ceilings-helping the building regain much of its visual coherence and giving today’s visitors a clearer window into what once defined the space.

Things to See and Do in the Corpus Christi Church

Begin in the courtyard and take a moment before you go inside, because the transition is part of the experience. The exterior feels modest and almost private, then the interior opens into a striking sequence of arches that immediately changes the mood from street-level bustle to calm, filtered light.

Inside, follow the lines of the horseshoe arches and the octagonal columns, then look upward and outward for the interplay between structure and decoration. The restored details reward slow looking: capitals, surface textures, and the way the space is divided into naves create a sense of ordered beauty that feels both intimate and monumental.

If you enjoy places that invite reflection rather than rushing, this is the kind of stop that's best experienced at a gentle pace. Treat it as a quiet anchor within the Jewish Quarter-something you visit not just to “see,” but to understand how Segovia's layers sit on top of each other without fully erasing what came before.

How to Get to the Corpus Christi Church

Corpus Christi Church (Iglesia del Corpus Christi) is in Plaza del Corpus Christi, in Segovia's Old Town Jewish Quarter, a short walk from the cathedral area and the main historic streets. The nearest major airport is Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), and most visitors continue to Segovia by train or coach before walking into the centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Segovia on Booking.com.

From Madrid, the simplest rail option is a high-speed train to Segovia-Guiomar, then a local bus or taxi to the Old Town; once you're in the historic centre, it's easiest to reach the church on foot through the Jewish Quarter lanes. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. If you're already sightseeing, it fits naturally between Segovia Cathedral and the Alcázar end of town, and it's an easy detour off the main pedestrian routes.

By car, aim to park outside the tightest Old Town streets and walk in, as the historic centre has limited access and narrow lanes; from most central car parks it’s a manageable walk to Plaza del Corpus Christi. 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 Corpus Christi Church

  • Entrance fee: €1 (reduced €0.50; free for children under 14 accompanied by an adult).
  • Opening hours: (Summer) 1 April – 31 October; Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 10:45–13:45. Saturday: 10:45–13:45 & 16:00–19:00. Sunday: 10:45–14:15.
    (Winter) 1 November – 31 March; Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 10:45–14:00. Saturday: 10:45–14:00 & 16:00–18:00. Sunday: 10:45–14:15.
    Closed on Tuesday & Friday.
  • Best time to visit: Aim for a quieter moment in the morning or later afternoon so the interior feels more contemplative and less hurried.
  • How long to spend: 20-40 minutes is ideal for a relaxed look, especially if you like noticing architectural details.
  • Accessibility: Access is via a courtyard and the interior includes historic surfaces, so expect uneven flooring and a few minor thresholds.
  • Facilities: This is a small, peaceful site, so plan restrooms and longer breaks around nearby cafés in the Old Town.

Where to Stay Close to the Corpus Christi Church

For a culture-heavy itinerary, the best base is Segovia's Old Town around Plaza Mayor and the cathedral streets so you can walk to the Jewish Quarter, the Alcázar, and the aqueduct without relying on transport.

If you want a central Old Town stay that keeps everything within easy walking distance, Hotel Infanta Isabel is a strong pick for location and atmosphere. For a similarly walkable base along the main historic streets, Hotel Real Segovia works well if you like being close to both sightseeing routes and evening dining. If you prefer a quieter Old Town feel in a historic setting, Exe Casa de Los Linajes is a good option for calm nights while still staying highly walkable.

Is the Corpus Christi Church Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you're interested in the human-scale stories of Segovia rather than only the headline monuments. The visit is short, but it's distinctive, and the architecture gives you an immediate, tangible sense of the city's Jewish heritage.

It's also worth it because it adds nuance to your route through the Old Town. After you've been inside, the surrounding Jewish Quarter streets feel more connected to a real past rather than just a picturesque part of the map.

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

This can work well for families if you treat it as a short, curiosity-led visit rather than a long historical lesson. The arches and column shapes give children something visual to focus on, and the compact size means it’s easier to keep momentum.

The key is pacing and expectations. Go in with a simple goal-spot the horseshoe arches, notice the three-part layout, then move on-so it stays engaging and doesn’t feel like a “quiet requirement” for kids.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, this is a quietly atmospheric stop that feels personal and slightly hidden, which makes it a nice contrast to Segovia’s biggest, busiest sights. The courtyard entry and calm interior naturally encourage a slower pace and a more reflective mood.

It also pairs beautifully with an unhurried wander through the Jewish Quarter lanes afterward. If you like travel moments that feel intimate and specific to a place, this is a stop that often lingers in memory more than you'd expect from its size.

Budget Travelers

Budget travellers will appreciate that this is a low-cost cultural stop that adds depth without requiring a major time commitment. It’s also well positioned on foot routes, so it doesn’t force extra transport costs or detours.

If you’re building an efficient day, this site is ideal as a “value add” between larger attractions. You get a meaningful interior experience that balances out Segovia’s more exterior-focused monuments and viewpoints.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.2 (151)

Corpus Christi is a small, charming church on Plaza del Corpus in Segovia's old Jewish quarter, noted for its blend of architectural influences and interesting altars, including ones devoted to Saint Francis. Visitors describe it as a hidden gem with historical layers (including use as a synagogue in the past) and compact enough to see in about 30 minutes; there is a small admission charge (about €1 for adults, free for young children) and an English leaflet is provided to summarize the site since most on-site information is in Spanish.

Sohamjit Mukherjee
7 months ago
"This is a charming, small church located right in front of the old Jewish quarter, rich with fascinating history. The entrance fee is just 1 euro.While the church itself is quite small and can be fully explored in about 30 minutes, it offers a meaningful glimpse into the area’s past. Most of the information inside is in Spanish, but upon entry, you’ll receive a concise English booklet that covers the history and key facts about the site. If you’re interested in history and want a quick, affordable visit, this spot is worth your time..."
Jim J.
8 months ago
"Beautiful church highlighting Arabic architecture with fantastic alters of Saint Francis with good explanation of the details. A must see in Segovia"
Sujay Sreekumar
9 months ago
"Saw the place from the outside. Lot of history behind this of take overs and conquest. Do visit!"

FAQs for Visiting the Corpus Christi Church

Getting There

It’s in Corpus Christi Square within Segovia’s old Jewish Quarter, a short walk from the main Old Town streets. It’s easiest to reach on foot as part of a historic-centre wander.
Walk into the Jewish Quarter lanes heading away from the cathedral area and follow signs toward Plaza del Corpus. The route is short, scenic, and full of small details worth slowing down for.
Yes, it fits neatly between the cathedral area and the Alcázar side of the Old Town. It’s best treated as a short interior visit that breaks up a walking-heavy itinerary.

Tickets & Entry

It’s generally a short, focused visit with one main interior space and time for slow looking. If you enjoy architecture, you’ll naturally spend longer, but it doesn’t demand hours.
Most travellers visit independently during published visiting hours, and booking is usually only relevant for group visits. If you’re visiting in peak season, arriving earlier helps you avoid feeling rushed.
They miss the overall rhythm of the arches and how the space is divided into three naves. Standing still for a minute and letting your eyes adjust makes the interior feel far more impressive.

Visiting Experience

Focus on the horseshoe arches, the octagonal columns, and the three-nave layout, which strongly reflect the building’s synagogue structure. The courtyard access also helps you read how the site was approached historically.
Yes, because the draw is architectural and historical rather than devotional. It’s one of those places where the building itself tells the story clearly, even without deep background knowledge.
Pair it with a Jewish Quarter walk and then continue toward the Alcázar viewpoints for a strong contrast between intimate interior space and big city panoramas. This creates a satisfying arc without backtracking.

Photography

Yes, particularly for interior architectural shots where arches create repeating patterns and depth. It’s best for detail-focused images rather than wide “grand hall” photos.
Quieter visiting moments help more than any specific light, because it’s easier to compose shots without feeling in the way. Move slowly and look for angles that show the arches receding in sequence.
Because it’s part of an active convent setting, it’s best to keep voices low and treat the space respectfully. Even if photography is permitted, a discreet approach helps preserve the calm atmosphere for everyone.

Accessibility & Facilities

It can be manageable, but expect historic surfaces and minor thresholds, plus the courtyard approach. If mobility is a concern, plan a shorter visit and take your time on uneven ground.
Facilities are limited because this is a small historic site rather than a large museum complex. It’s best to plan restrooms and longer breaks around nearby cafés in the Old Town.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Head back toward the cathedral and Plaza Mayor area, where you’ll find the widest choice and the liveliest atmosphere. It’s also a natural next step if you’re continuing your Old Town route.
Yes, because it’s compact and doesn’t disrupt your schedule. It works well as a thoughtful “in-between” visit before a longer sit-down meal in the centre.

Safety & Timing

Yes, it’s a central Old Town area that’s typically calm and pedestrian-friendly. As always in tourist zones, keep an eye on belongings, but the overall feel is relaxed.
Earlier visits tend to feel quieter and more contemplative, while later visits can fit nicely into an afternoon loop through the Jewish Quarter. Choose the timing that best matches your walking route and energy.

Nearby Attractions to the Corpus Christi Church

  • Jewish Quarter of Segovia: A network of historic lanes that brings context to the city's layered past and makes for a rewarding wander.
  • Segovia Cathedral: A soaring Gothic landmark that anchors the Old Town and pairs well with smaller, detail-rich sites nearby.
  • Alcázar of Segovia: The city's dramatic fortress-palace, ideal to follow with after exploring the Jewish Quarter streets.
  • Plaza Mayor: Segovia's main square and the easiest place to pause for a café break between sights.
  • Aqueduct of Segovia: The city's iconic Roman monument and a natural bookend to a day of walking through Segovia's history.

The Convento de Clarisas del Corpus Christi appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Segovia!

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

Hours:

(Summer) 1 April - 31 October; Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 10:45-13:45. Saturday: 10:45-13:45 & 16:00-19:00. Sunday: 10:45-14:15.

(Winter) 1 November - 31 March; Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 10:45-14:00. Saturday: 10:45-14:00 & 16:00-18:00. Sunday: 10:45-14:15.

Closed on Tuesday & Friday.

Price:

€1 (reduced €0.50; free for children under 14 accompanied by an adult).

Address: Corpus Christi Pl. del Corpus, 7 40001 Segovia Spain
Segovia: 1 km

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