Abadía Del Sacromonte in Granada: Ultimate Visiting Guide

Abadía del Sacromonte is still a hidden gem in Granada as it’s quite a bit outside the city center. However, despite its off-the-beaten-path location, it’s incredibly easy to reach on foot or by bus.

It took me three visits to Granada to finally see Abadía Del Sacromonte, and I wish I had gone sooner. I was impressed by the peaceful atmosphere and the unique cave church at its center. The amazing views of Granada and the Alhambra were an added bonus.

In this post, I’ll share all the information you need to know before visiting Abadía Del Sacromonte, including how to get there, what to see, and why it’s a must-visit spot in Granada.

Getting There

Abadía Del Sacromonte is on Sacromonte Hill, near the Sacromonte neighborhood known for its cave houses. It can be reached by foot or public transportation.

If you’re staying in the city center, it’s about a 40-minute walk from Plaza Nueva.

You can take bus number C34 Circular Centro – Sacromonte – Abadía. There are several stops in the center, including Plaza Nueva. The bus from the center goes directly to the Abadía car park. On the way back, it follows a circular route, taking a bit longer but still returning to the center.

The bus ticket costs €1.40 for one ride and you simply pay when you get on the bus. You can also use a rechargeable bus card if you have one.

What to See at Abadía Del Sacromonte

Cave Church

The main attraction at Abadía Del Sacromonte is the Santas Cuevas, the holy caves. The cave church is one of the most unusual sights in Granada. It’s a beautiful and unique space, with cave passages and religious artefacts in multiple vaults.

It is believed that Santiago, the patron saint of Spain, held the first Christian mass in these caves. They are also where San Cecilio was martyred, and the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared. Whether those claims are all true or not, it is undoubtably a very unique place.

Cloisters

Besides the cave church, the cloister was my second favorite part of Abadía Del Sacromonte. There’s a fountain in the middle surrounded by a few trees. The orange color of the monastery buildings creates a picturesque view.

You can take a leisurely walk through the cloisters or sit and relax while taking in the views. And afterwards you can explore the different rooms which you can enter from the cloister.

Main Church

The main church feels more like a chapel compared to other churches in Granada. It’s also less unique than the cave church, though I found it interesting how the Star of David is incorporated into a Roman Catholic church.

Museum

The pride of the museum’s collection at the Abbey are the Lead Books of Sacromonte. These mysterious texts, discovered in the late 16th century, were originally believed to contain early Christian writings but are now known to be forgeries.

The museum also houses a variety of religious relics and artifacts, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the Abbey’s significance over the centuries.

I also really enjoyed the sculptures by Venancio Blanco, who is considered one of the most important sculptors from Spain of the 20th century. There are multiple sculptures in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Courtyard.

View of Granada and Alhambra

Last but not least, the view from Abadía Del Sacromonte is amazing. You can see all of Granada and the Alhambra from a different perspective. It’s a great spot for taking photos or simply enjoying the scenery.

Tips for Visiting

• If you decide to walk to the abbey, wear comfortable shoes and bring enough drinking water, as the walk is steep and it can get very hot.
• You can either buy a ticket just for the abbey or a combined ticket for multiple churches and monasteries in Granada to save some money.
• As a religious site, it’s respectful to dress modestly.
• Make sure to check the opening times, they vary depending on the season, and the abbey is closed for a siesta in the afternoon.
• Bring some cash for the bus ride. It’s possible to pay by card as well, but I always feel saver to have the bus fare in cash with me.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Sacromonte Abbey

Abadía Del Sacromonte may not be as well-known as other attractions in Granada, but that’s part of its charm. The peaceful atmosphere and unique cave church make it a special place to visit. Plus, the views alone are worth the trip.

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and experience a different side of Granada, then Abadía Del Sacromonte is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. So next time you’re in Granada, make sure to visit this hidden gem and see its beauty for yourself.

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