The old town's main church, a Baroque building with a decorated stone facade on the street of the pintxo bars.
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Coro is the parish church of the Parte Vieja and the most important religious building in old San Sebastian. The present building was constructed in the 18th century on the site of an older church, and the city tourism site records construction from 1743 to 1774. Its richly sculpted Baroque facade is topped by a statue of Saint Sebastian. Inside, the nave is decorated with ornate altarpieces in Churrigueresque style. The basilica stands on Calle 31 de Agosto, one of the best-known pintxo streets, and is commonly combined with a walk up the nearby path to Monte Urgull. Each 14 August the Orfeon Donostiarra choir sings here for the Semana Grande festivities. Visitors should dress modestly, keep their voices low and avoid entering during Mass. Check the day's opening times on arrival, as the church closes between services and sources differ on hours.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Reported daily about 10:15-13:15 and 16:45-19:45 on the city tourism site; other sources give 10:00-13:00 and 16:00-19:00; closed to visitors during services; confirm locally |
| Typical visit | 20-40 minutes |
| Best time | Morning or late afternoon outside services |
| Getting there | Walk from La Concha in 10 minutes; on Calle 31 de Agosto at the foot of Monte Urgull |
| Address | Calle 31 de Agosto, 46, 20003 Donostia / San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, Spain |
Location
Calle 31 de Agosto, 46, 20003 Donostia / San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, Spain
43.3236, -1.9867 View on map
Highlights
- Sculpted Baroque facade topped by Saint Sebastian
- Churrigueresque altarpieces inside
- Orfeon Donostiarra concert on 14 August
- Starting point for a climb up Monte Urgull
Tips for visiting
- Visit between services; the church closes at midday.
- Dress modestly and keep voices low.
- Pair with a walk up the Urgull path starting beside the church.
- Look up at the facade statuary in morning light.
- Verify hours at the door as sources differ.
When to visit
Mornings and late afternoons outside Mass times.
Accessibility
The main entrance is close to street level on a cobbled street; confirm access inside with the tourism office.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the basilica free?
Yes, entry is reported as free.
When is the Orfeon Donostiarra concert?
Each year on 14 August the choir sings at the basilica as part of the Semana Grande festivities.
How long should I allow?
About 20 to 40 minutes.