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Nestled directly between the Cathedral and the former Moorish silk bazaar of the Alcaicería, the Capilla Real (Royal Chapel) is one of the most historically momentous sacred sites in Europe. Built between 1505 and 1517 in late Isabelline Gothic style, it was chosen by Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon as their final resting place.
1. The Royal Marble Mausoleums and Crypt
At the center of the transept stands an awe-inspiring Renaissance funeral monument carved from Italian Carrara marble by master sculptor Domenico Fancelli. Here rest Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand, beside a second monumental tomb holding their daughter, Queen Joanna ‘the Mad’ (Juana la Loca), and her husband Philip ‘the Handsome’ (Felipe el Hermoso).
Down a narrow set of stone steps directly beneath the marble sculptures lies the Underground Crypt. Through a glass grate, visitors can view the modest lead caskets marked with royal monograms holding the physical remains of the monarchs who reshaped the map of the world.
2. The Sacristy Museum: Royal Treasures
The adjoining Sacristy houses an invaluable collection of personal royal relics and fine art:
- The Queen’s Crown and Scepter: The actual silver-gilt crown and royal scepter worn by Queen Isabella.
- King Ferdinand’s Sword: The finely tempered steel blade carried by Ferdinand into Granada in 1492.
- Isabella’s Private Art Gallery: An extraordinary collection of Early Netherlandish (Flemish) masterpieces collected by the Queen, including works by Rogier van der Weyden, Hans Memling, and Botticelli.
- Royal Vestments and Manuscripts: The Queen’s hand-embroidered prayer books and liturgical vestments.
3. Visitor Information (2026)
- Admission: 6.00 € (includes audio guide); Free for children under 12.
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 to 18:30 h; Sundays: 11:00 to 18:30 h.
- Photography: Photography is strictly prohibited inside the chapel and crypt to preserve the reverent atmosphere and historical artifacts.
