There is certainly no shortage of churches in Seville. And one of the most charming that you’ll find is this immense baroque sanctuary. 

The first Iglesia de la Magdalena was originally on the plaza that currently bears the same name, and remained there until it was destroyed during the French invasion. Much later the decision was made to move the parish to its current address on Calle San Pablo. 

The church that we see today is the work of Leonardo de Figueroa who completed its construction in 1709. And without a doubt, it is one of the most magnificent and well-crafted churches in the entire city. In the southeastern corner, you will see its “Mudéjar” (Moorish) style chapel that goes by the name of Capilla de la Quinta Angustia, the only part of the original church that remains. Additionally, it was at this spot that in 1618 the painter Bartolomé Esteban Murillo was baptised.

In all likelihood, what will grab your attention when you enter the Iglesia de la Magdalena is its richly decorated interior, with murals painted at the end of the 17th century. Perhaps the most stunning aspect is the ornamentation in the dome, which contains scenes from the Old Testament attributed to Roldán’s workshop. 

Additionally, among the many religious works of art that you will find inside, one of the most important is a painting by Zurbarán entitled “Santo Domingo en Soria,” located in the sacramental chapel. Over the altar hangs the fresco “Alegoría del triunfo de la fe,” a work by Lucas Valdés. 

The church is home to two Brotherhoods, El Calvario, with two “paso” floats on display during Holy Week, in particular “Cristo del Calvario,” a baroque image made of mahogany, completed by Ocampo in 1611 and paraded about on Good Friday. And the Brotherhood of La Quinta Angustia, which has a single paso float: “El Señor del Sagrado Descendimiento,” a work by Pedro Roldan from 1659 that is paraded on Maundy Thursday during Holy Week. It depicts the moment at which Jesus was taken down from the cross. Saint John the Evangelist, Nicodemus, Joseph of Arimathea, Mary Magdalene, Salome and Mary Mother of James and Joseph form the Mystery of the Virgin de la Quinta Angustia.

Be sure to enjoy this church, which is one of the city’s richest in gold and silver work.