The Parroquia Santisimo Cristo is one of the two Gothic churches that make up the Santander Cathedral. Dating back to the 1100s, the site is now known for its fascinating glass floor panel revealing an array of archaeological artifacts from the Roman period in Cantabria. Marvel at the great range of ecclesiastical relics that shed light on the church’s intriguing history.
Capture photos of the light-colored façade of this Gothic structure. Gaze up at the arched windows and the central tower rising above the church. Clamber up the majestic external staircase and make your way through the large arch in front of the main portal.
Enter the nave and gaze up at the pillars that hold up the low vaulted ceiling above the checked black-and-white floor. Wonderful religious relics adorn the church’s interior, with the crucifix of polychrome wood among the highlights. See the replica of the iconic Pietà sculpture by artist Gregorio Fernández.
Inspect the eerie skulls that lie within opulent silver vessels. The heads once belonged to the early Christian martyrs and patron saints of Santander, San Celedonio and San Emeterio. These skulls have great religious importance and helped to shape the formation of a monastery previously constructed on this location.
The church is the older, lower counterpart to the Bishopric of Santander, which together form Santander Cathedral. Archaeological digs took place here in the 1980s. Look through the section of glass floor to see the excavated Roman relics.
The church is open to the public daily from morning until early afternoon and then again from late afternoon to evening. There is no fee to enter the site.
The Parroquia Santisimo Cristo is a little west of the Jardines de Pereda in the old town quarter of Santander. It is a short walk from the Santander railway station and the city’s port. Visit some of the other nearby sights, such as the Annunciation Parish, the Meones Fountain and Sacred Heart Church.
