Colegiata de Santa María (La Seu)

In Gandia's old town stands the Colegiata de Santa María, known locally as La Seu. It is a Valencian Gothic church raised in the late 14th century that dominates the maze of streets in the old city, a short walk from the Palau Ducal dels Borja.

History and architecture

The Colegiata belongs to the tradition of Valencian Gothic, the style of sober vertical lines, golden stone and broad naves found in the medieval churches of the former Kingdom of Valencia. Its doorways are the most celebrated feature: the Porta de Santa María, of Gothic workmanship, and the Porta dels Apòstols, already Renaissance in spirit. The contrast between the two sums up centuries of building history in a single structure.

What to see

• The two doorways, Gothic and Renaissance, best compared from the outside.
• The spaciousness of the nave and the verticality of the Gothic interior.
• The setting: narrow streets of the old town that link back to the former ducal town.

Tips for your visit

• Entry to the church is free; check the opening hours, which are usually tied to worship times.
• Dress respectfully, as it is a working place of worship.
• Combine it with a stroll through Gandia's historic centre.