Does Madrid Have a Cathedral?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, one of the first things you’ll likely want to see is the city’s famous landmarks and attractions. But if you’re wondering whether Madrid has a cathedral, the answer can be a bit confusing.

To start with, it’s important to note that Madrid is not actually the capital of Spain’s Catholic Church. That distinction belongs to the Cathedral of Saint Mary in Toledo, which was the country’s religious center until 1561 when King Felipe II moved his court and government to Madrid.

That being said, Madrid does have several important churches and religious sites that are worth visiting. One of the most notable is Almudena Cathedral, which is located near the Royal Palace in central Madrid.

Almudena Cathedral was actually consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993, making it relatively new compared to many other European cathedrals. Its construction took over a century due to various setbacks and delays, but today it stands as one of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks.

But despite its status as a major church and tourist attraction, Almudena Cathedral is not technically considered a cathedral in the traditional sense. This is because it does not serve as the seat of a bishop or archbishop – instead, it is classified as a co-cathedral alongside Santa María la Real de La Almudena in Getafe.

So while Madrid may not have an official cathedral per se, it still boasts several impressive religious sites that are worth exploring during your visit. Some other notable churches and basilicas include San Francisco el Grande, San Jerónimo el Real, and Basilica de San Miguel.

In addition to these religious sites, there are also plenty of other cultural and historical attractions throughout Madrid – from museums and art galleries to parks and gardens. So whether you’re interested in architecture or just looking for some fun things to do during your trip, there’s no shortage of options in this vibrant and exciting city.

In summary, while Madrid may not have a traditional cathedral in the sense that it’s not the seat of a bishop or archbishop, it still has several important religious sites that are worth visiting. Almudena Cathedral is one of the most famous and iconic, but there are also plenty of other churches and basilicas throughout the city that offer a glimpse into Spain’s rich history and culture.