Located on a hill overlooking the city, it has been an important part of Granada’s religious life for over 500 years.
The church was built by Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II between 1482 and 1523 to commemorate their victory over the Moors during the Reconquista. The original design of Santa Maria was inspired by Gothic architecture, with its pointed arches, stained-glass windows, and tall spires reaching up towards heaven. Inside, visitors can see a variety of ornate decorations, including paintings depicting scenes from Bible stories as well as sculptures honouring Catholic saints.
One of Santa Maria’s most notable features is its bell tower, which stands at an impressive height of 40 meters (131 feet). This majestic structure dates back to 1537 when it was completed under supervision from renowned architect Diego de Siloé, who also designed other famous landmarks throughout Spain such as Seville Cathedral and La Giralda Tower in Córdoba. From this vantage point atop the tower, you can enjoy breathtaking views across Granada’s terracotta-tiled rooftops all the way out to the Sierra Nevada mountain range beyond.
Another unique feature that makes Santa Maria stand out among other churches is its incredible acoustic properties due to its large interior space combined with high ceilings supported by thick stone walls – something that has made it popular among local choirs seeking perfect acoustics for their performances. It is also home to numerous musical events throughout the year including concerts featuring traditional Andalusian flamenco music which make great opportunities for visitors looking to immerse themselves into Spanish culture while they are here in Granada.
