Church of San Pedro el Viejo is a medieval Catholic church on C. del Nuncio in Madrid’s Centro district, among the city’s oldest. Its 14th-century brick bell tower has horseshoe-arched openings and Mudéjar details that bring Islamic and Christian influences together. Inside, look for the ribbed vault over the head of the Epistle nave; the church also has a Renaissance doorway and later additions. The quiet interior suits a short pause for prayer or contemplation, and the nearby plaza is a pleasant place to sit afterwards.
A church built over an earlier site
The church stands on the site of an ancient Moorish mosque. King Alfonso XI commissioned the original church to mark the capture of Algeciras. The building and its tower reflect successive periods of construction, with parts dating from the 14th to the 17th century.
Tower, doorway and interior details
The brick bell tower dates to the 14th century and has horseshoe-arched openings. Its Mudéjar style combines Islamic and Christian influences. Beside the tower is a Renaissance doorway. Inside, the head of the Epistle nave has a 15th-century ribbed vault, while the main nave and three side naves belong to a reconstruction in the early 17th century.
The church and tower were declared sites of cultural interest in 1979. Outside, take a walk around the building, then pause in the neighbouring Plaza de San Pedro el Viejo.
FAQ
When is the church usually open to visitors?
It is usually open during Sunday mass at noon. Access is not always available at other times.
What should I look for at Church of San Pedro el Viejo?
Look for the 14th-century Mudéjar brick tower, its horseshoe-arched openings, the Renaissance doorway and the ribbed vault in the Epistle nave.
Where is Church of San Pedro el Viejo?
It is at C. del Nuncio, 14, in Madrid’s Centro district, beside Plaza de San Pedro el Viejo.
