Pamplona Cathedral: Everything You Can’t Miss

One of the best examples of this is Pamplona Cathedral, a monument that blends the solemnity of French Gothic with artistic richness, placing it among the top three cathedral complexes in Spain.

The cathedral impresses from the very first moment with its imposing neoclassical façade, which contrasts beautifully with the delicacy of its interior, and with spectacular spaces like its cloister, considered one of the most beautiful in European Gothic architecture. Every corner speaks of history, spirituality, and pure art.

If you’ve already explored what to see in Pamplona in our previous article—wandering through its squares, ancient walls, and charming spots—this post takes it one step further. Here, we invite you to discover the most valuable treasures of Pamplona Cathedral, along with practical information on opening hours, ticket prices, and useful tips to help you plan your visit and make sure you don’t miss a thing in this cultural must-see.

History of Pamplona Cathedral

Pamplona Cathedral was built between the 14th and 15th centuries, on the site of an earlier Romanesque cathedral that had suffered serious damage. The result is the current Gothic temple, considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in Navarre.

Its full name, Cathedral of Santa María la Real, reflects the religious and political significance it held for centuries. While the interior is distinctly Gothic, the main façade is Neoclassical, designed in the 18th century, and gives the building a monumental presence that immediately impresses visitors from the square.

In addition to the church itself, the Cathedral Museum houses the permanent exhibition “Occidens”—a journey through Western history and culture, featuring historical artifacts, audiovisual content, and educational activities designed for all audiences.

The María Bell

One of the most fascinating elements of the cathedral is the María Bell, cast in 1584. Weighing nearly 12 tons, it is the second largest bell in Spain—and most remarkably, it’s still in use.

For centuries, it did more than just mark the hours; it also signaled major events in the city, from religious festivals and official celebrations to emergencies. Its long history and resonant sound make it a living symbol of Pamplona.

When to Visit and Opening Hours

To make the most of your visit, it’s worth planning ahead with the following details in mind:

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Masses: Times may vary depending on the day; it’s best to check in advance

• Tickets: Entry to the main nave is free, but access to the museum and cloister requires a ticket, usually priced between €3 and €5

What to See Inside Pamplona Cathedral

Exploring the interior of Pamplona Cathedral feels like a journey through time. Its spaces preserve the atmosphere of centuries past and impress visitors with their rich sculptural and architectural details.

Here are some of the most remarkable highlights:

• Altarpieces and Choir Stalls: Among the cathedral’s true treasures. The choir stalls, crafted by Esteban de Obray, display extraordinary woodwork featuring religious scenes and intricate ornamental motifs.
• Santo Cristo de Anchieta: A deeply moving sculpture, known for its striking realism and emotional power—one of the most visited pieces in the cathedral.
• Tomb of Charles III and Eleanor of Trastámara: Created between 1413 and 1419 by Johan Lome de Tournai, this monumental example of medieval funerary art stands out for its 28 mourning statues that seem to accompany the monarchs in eternal rest.
• Barbazana Chapel: A funerary chapel with a star-shaped octagonal vault, considered one of the most unique architectural spaces in the entire complex.
• Cloister of Pamplona Cathedral: Started in the early 14th century, it is one of the cathedral’s main attractions—a serene place to walk and admire the harmony of its Gothic arches and galleries.
• Romanesque Carving of Santa María la Real: The oldest Marian image in Navarre, dating back to the 12th century. This statue was present during royal coronations, highlighting its historical and symbolic importance.

Architecture of the Cathedral: A Journey Through Navarrese Gothic

Hidden Gems of Pamplona Cathedral

Beyond its grand spaces, the cathedral hides small corners that tell big stories. Every detail reveals centuries of art, devotion, and daily life. We invite you to explore them and get closer to the rich history of Navarre.

San José Door

Located on the north façade, this Gothic doorway stands out for its sculptural reliefs. The figures are remarkably realistic, with expressive faces and dynamic gestures that captivate even those unfamiliar with religious art.

Puerta del Amparo

Es especialmente conocida por su tímpano policromado, donde se representa la Dormición de la Virgen. El dramatismo de las figuras y la intensidad de sus gestos hacen que la escena parezca cobrar vida.

Amparo Door

This entrance is especially known for its polychrome tympanum, depicting the Dormition of the Virgin. The dramatic gestures and emotional intensity of the figures give the scene a vivid, almost lifelike presence.

Refectory Door 

The Refectory Door connects to the old canons’ dining hall and surprises visitors with its vaulted ceiling decorated with secular scenes, such as animals and small hunting scenes—offering a glimpse into everyday life of the past.

Archdeacon’s Door

This portal presents scenes from the Passion of Christ in a clear, straightforward style, designed to convey the message even to those unfamiliar with religious iconography.

Sculptural Group: The Adoration of the Magi

Located in the cloister, this sculptural ensemble is notable for the expressiveness and natural movement of the figures, which seem to interact with one another in a lifelike way.

Barbazana Chapel and Adjacent Rooms

In addition to its stunning star-shaped vault, the Barbazana Chapel includes adjoining rooms such as the refectory, kitchen, and canons’ dormitory, giving visitors a vivid sense of what daily life was like for those who once inhabited the cathedral.

Where to Stay in Pamplona

Choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference between an ordinary visit and a truly memorable experience. Pamplona—a vibrant, welcoming city rich in culture and gastronomy—deserves to be explored from an accommodation that rises to the occasion. That’s why Kora Kiliki is a perfect choice for travelers seeking comfort, independence, and a prime location.

Strategically located in an area well connected to the historic center and major points of interest, Kora Kiliki makes it easy to get around the city, whether on foot or by public transport. Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or family, this aparthotel blends the best of traditional lodging with the flexibility and privacy of a modern apartment.

Its spaces are designed to suit every type of traveler: fully equipped studios and apartments, modern and functional, featuring a complete kitchen, living area, and sleeping space. Whether you’re staying for a few nights or planning a longer visit, Kora Kiliki has everything you need to make the most of your time in Pamplona.

How to Get to Pamplona Cathedral from Kora Kiliki

Getting to the cathedral from Kora Kiliki is easy and convenient. The aparthotel is well located, just a few minutes from the historic center, making it possible to walk there in about 10–15 minutes while enjoying the city’s charm, lively streets, and some of Pamplona’s most beautiful squares.

There are also urban bus lines that connect the hotel area with the old town, with stops very close to the cathedral. Without a doubt, it’s a comfortable and pleasant journey, and a perfect way to start your cultural route through the city.