Royal Chapel of Granada

Overview

The Capilla Real is the burial place of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, who captured Granada from the Moors in 1492. It stands as a masterpiece of the Isabelline Gothic style.

Highlights

• Royal Tombs: Carrara marble effigies of Ferdinand, Isabella, Joanna the Mad, and Philip the Handsome, sculpted by Domenico Fancelli.
• Sacristy Museum: Houses Isabella's personal art collection, including works by Rogier van der Weyden and Memling.
• Gilt Iron Grille: Bartolomé de Jaén's magnificent 16th-century reja separating the nave from the royal tombs.

History

Ferdinand and Isabella chose Granada as their final resting place to commemorate their greatest achievement: the completion of the Reconquista. The chapel was built between 1505 and 1517 by Enrique Egas.

Visitor Tips

• No Photography: Photos are prohibited inside the chapel.
• Open on Sundays: Afternoon visits only on Sundays (after Mass).
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.