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San Vicente Church — Donostia
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Religious places 📍 Donostia, Spain 107 views

San Vicente Church

Lording it over the Parte Vieja, this striking church is thought to be the oldest building in San Sebastián. Its origins date to the 12th century, but it was rebuilt in its current Gothic form in the early 1500s. Its interior is home to a very fine Romanesque altarpiece, the work...

Photo · Marta S.

San Vicente Church — Donostia, Spain.

Location
Donostia
Type
Religious places
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About San Vicente Church

San Vicente Church - Donostia | Secret World Trip Planner

Lording it over the Parte Vieja, this striking church is thought to be the oldest building in San Sebastián. Its origins date to the 12th century, but it was rebuilt in its current Gothic form in the early 1500s. Its interior is home to a very fine Romanesque altarpiece, the work of Ambrosio de Bengoechea and Juan de Iriarte. Sharing the limelight is the 1868 French organ by Cavaille-Coll and impressive stained glass windows. On one side of the facade is the sculpture of the “Pietà” by the artist Jorge Oteiza. People christened in San Vicente are known as “koxkeros” for the stones protruding from the church (koxka in Basque).

San Vicente Church - Donostia | Secret World Trip Planner
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  1. 01
    Morning
    San Vicente Church
    📍 Donostia
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  2. 02
    Afternoon
    📍 0.1 km away
  3. 03
    Evening
    📍 0.2 km away

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Frequently Asked Questions

San Vicente Church is thought to be the oldest building in San Sebastián, with origins dating back to the 12th century. Although it was rebuilt in its current Gothic form during the early 1500s, it remains a significant historical landmark in the Parte Vieja district.
The church houses a very fine Romanesque altarpiece created by Ambrosio de Bengoechea and Juan de Iriarte, along with an impressive 1868 French organ by the renowned builder Cavaille-Coll. The interior is also adorned with beautiful stained glass windows that add to its artistic appeal.
The striking 'Pietà' sculpture on one side of the church's facade was created by renowned Basque artist Jorge Oteiza. This sculpture is one of the notable artistic features that distinguishes the church's exterior.
People christened at San Vicente Church are known as 'koxkeros,' a name derived from the Basque word 'koxka,' which refers to the stones protruding from the church's structure. This unique local tradition reflects the church's deep connection to the San Sebastián community.
San Vicente Church is built in the Gothic style, which was the form chosen when it was rebuilt in the early 1500s. Though its origins trace back to the Romanesque period of the 12th century, the current structure showcases the architectural beauty of Gothic design.

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