If you are interested in visiting the town, we tell you all about what to see in Utrera. It is a Sevillian town located about 30 km from the city of Seville, with approximately 52,000 inhabitants. With a rich history and cultural heritage, Utrera is known for its traditional charm and its important heritage. It is considered the birthplace of the fighting bull or toro de lidia and the land that saw the birth of artists and illustrious characters such as Enrique Montoya, Rodrigo Caro or the sculptor Ruiz Gijón.
With a history that dates back to Roman times, Utrera treasures an architectural and cultural legacy of great importance. Over the centuries, it has been home to various cultures that have left an indelible mark on the municipality. Some of Utrera’s most emblematic sites include the Sanctuary of Consolation, the church of Santa Maria de la Mesa, the Hospital of the Holy Resurrection, the Castle, the Surga House and the Plaza del Altozano. Our hotel is just a few minutes walk from the architectural wonders hidden in Utrera.
The most outstanding things to visit in Utrera:
Santuario de Consolación
The sanctuary has its roots in the early years of the 16th century, when Antonio Barrados obtained permission to build a chapel in honor of the Virgin of Consolation. The titular image was donated by the convent of Nuestra Señora de la Antigua. On March 31, 1561, the hermitage passed into the hands of the congregation of the Padres Mínimos and, from then on, the convent and the accompanying church were built.
The fame of the miracles attributed to the Virgin of Consolation began to spread throughout Andalusia, especially among sailors on their way to the Americas. These sailors would pass by the shrine to ask for the Virgin’s protection or to thank her for a successful voyage. Over the years, numerous offerings and small boats have been added to the Virgin’s treasure, including the Nao de Oro, the most valuable votive offering donated by Rodrigo de Salinas in 1579.
The architectural style of the sanctuary is classicist baroque, typical of the early seventeenth century. It is characterized by its structure of a single nave with a transept, its plastered brick walls and pillars as supports. The entire front of the nave is covered by a large baroque altarpiece centered on the image of the patron saint. An obligatory stop to visit in Utrera.
Santa María de la Mesa
The construction of the Church of Santa María de la Mesa dates back to the 14th century, although it has undergone several modifications and additions over the years. It is located 2 minutes from the Hotel Palacio de San Fernando. Its name “Santa María de la Mesa” refers to an ancient tradition according to which the altar table of the church was used as a meeting point for the neighbors of Utrera and its surroundings.
The Church of Santa María de la Mesa is an emblematic religious monument in Utrera. With its imposing Gothic-Mudejar style, this temple is considered an authentic architectural icon of the town.
The main facade of the church is impressive, with a portal adorned with Gothic and Mudejar elements that attract the attention of visitors. The baroque bell tower also stands out in the architectural ensemble. As one enters the interior, one discovers details from different periods, from the majestic Gothic vaults to the elegant Renaissance chapels and the imposing Baroque altarpiece.
Castle of Utrera
It is located on a natural hill. This gives it a strategic position and a panoramic view of the city.
The Castle of Utrera, built by the Council of Seville on the remains of an ancient Arab tower, has its first historical mentions in 1246 by Alfonso X the Wise. However, in 1368, the king of Granada, Mohamed V, destroyed it completely. After the conquest of Granada by the Catholic Monarchs, the castle of Utrera lost its defensive function and was abandoned. Today, you can visit and walk through the remains of the castle.
Iglesia de Santiago
Just 5 minutes from the Church of Santa María de la Mesa and on the same street as the Castle, is the Church of Santiago. It is a temple of Gothic-Mudejar style, with architectural elements dating from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries.
The church has an impressive main façade with a portal with pointed arches and decorative details in brick and ceramics. Inside, one can appreciate characteristics of the Gothic style, such as ribbed vaults and pointed arches.
One of the most outstanding aspects of the Church of Santiago is its bell tower, of great height and singular architectural beauty. The tower has different bodies and is topped by a spire.
As for its history, it is believed that the church was built on the remains of an ancient mosque during the time of the Reconquest. Over the years, it has undergone several modifications and remodeling that have contributed to its current appearance. Its bell tower is visited and you can see the views of the whole town, besides being able to go down and see the catacombs and its 3 mummies that are under the church.
Hospital de la Santa Resurrección
Another very important and iconic place of the town and its history that you should not miss in Utrera, is the Hospital de la Santa Resurrección, or popularly called “El Hospitalito”.
The Hospital of the Holy Resurrection of Utrera is one of the oldest charitable institutions in Europe, whose foundation dates back to the early sixteenth century. It was created by the inhabitants of this noble House and officially constituted in 1514 by means of a bull of Pope Leo X. Throughout five centuries, this hospital has continued to carry out its important work, always faithful to its founding principle: charity.
For more than five centuries, this institution has provided shelter and clinical and spiritual care to the sick and homeless of the region. Here they have been offered love, food, lodging and human warmth. It has worked tirelessly to heal, to offer companionship in the final moments and to contribute to the birth of new lives.
Today, it has been partially converted into a museum, which opens its doors for guided tours of its interior. You take a tour through its rooms while discovering the centuries of history that its walls hold. It is located very close to the hotel, and adjoins the Church of Santiago.
Plaza del Altozano
Down the street Ponce de Leon, we find the town square, the Plaza del Altozano. An essential stop on your visit to Utrera. This square is located in the center and historic center of Utrera. Currently, it is a meeting place for the inhabitants as it is an area of leisure and restoration.
There are civil and residential buildings that still retain their original facades of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. These facades are distributed along the fronts of the square. You can enjoy its culture, heritage and wonderful cuisine.
Casa Surga
After visiting the Plaza del Altozano and walking down the street Virgen de Consolación we found the next stop. Casa Surga is a Palace House located in one of the main avenues of the city popularly known as “La Vereda”, María Auxiliadora street. It is an outstanding house that has a great recognition among the inhabitants of Utrera, and it is not difficult to understand why. This majestic residence was commissioned by Francisco Fernandez in 1783 and built in a unique baroque style.
These are the must-see stops in Utrera. You can enjoy its culture, heritage and its famous gastronomy. Discover the charm and the jewels hidden in the town of Utrera staying at Hotel Palacio de San Fernando. This 18th century palace has always been considered one of the most beautiful in Utrera. Its architecture stands out for its spacious rooms, an impressive courtyard and an admirable terrace. Located in the historical and monumental heart of Utrera, we are just a few minutes away from the most emblematic places. Book here.
Come and visit Utrera. We are waiting for you!
