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Cathedral · San Sebastián, Basque Country
Catedral del Buen Pastor
A 1897 Neo-Gothic cathedral in San Sebastián’s modern center, with a 75-meter tower and stained glass, aligned with the Basilica of Santa María along Calle Mayor.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Catedral del Buen Pastor
The Cathedral of the Good Shepherd was built between 1888 and 1897, designed by architect Manuel de Echave, in the centre of the Romantic quarter, the city’s 19th-century expansion. It was intended as the parish church for the new neighbourhood and became a cathedral in 1953 with the creation of the Diocese of San Sebastián.
The style is neo-Gothic, inspired by the Gothic cathedrals of northern Europe, with a Latin cross plan and a tower of about 75 meters, the tallest structure in the city. The interior features 20th-century stained glass, an organ and a sober altar.
The side façade has a sculpture by Eduardo Chillida, and the square in front, with gardens and benches, is a neighbourhood meeting point. From Calle Mayor, the cathedral tower lines up with the façade of the Basilica of Santa María at the other end, in the Parte Vieja.
The streets around it house the shops of San Sebastián’s shopping district.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 30 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, outside of Mass times, when light enters through the stained glass. Check the opening hours.
How to get there
It’s on Plaza del Buen Pastor in the center, a 5-minute walk from La Concha beach and a 10-minute walk from the train station.
Tip
Walk from the cathedral to Santa María along Calle Mayor to see the alignment of the two churches. Pay attention to the stained glass, which looks best in sunlight.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catedral del Buen Pastor
Is the cathedral old?
Not much: it was completed in 1897 in a neo-Gothic style, and became a cathedral in 1953.
How tall is the tower of the Buen Pastor?
About 75 meters, the tallest building in the city.
Is the cathedral near the beach?
Yes, about a 5-minute walk from La Concha.