The relatively small size of San Sebastian Church in Toledo may give the impression that it’s not worth seeing. On the contrary, this church is one of the oldest in the city. Its construction shows materials that were used over a number of periods. Visit this church that still plays an important role in society.
The church began as a mosque when it was built in the 10th century. Look up before entering and you will see a bell tower that stands where there was once a minaret.
The structure was initially given the name Al-Dabbagin. In the late 11th century it became a parish of the Mozarabic Rite, which pre-dated the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church. It served one of six Mozarabic Rite parishes in the city of Toledo.
Picture those early times when the church was located near a city gate called Bab-al-Dabbagin. This site too changed its name under Spanish influence and became Puerta de los Curtidores (Gate of the Tanners).
The structure was made larger in the 11th century, with further reconstruction in the late 12th and 13th centuries. The tower was erected in the 15th century.
Enter the church where you can still see signs of its Moorish beginnings in the columns along the interior walls. This blend of styles classifies the building in the Mudéjar type of architecture with its combination of Muslim and Christian components.
The church is primarily used as a concert venue and has seating for 150 people. If you have the opportunity, try to experience the rich sound of a performance in this lovely setting.
Find San Sebastian Church just north of the Tagus River in the Barrio de Curtidores district. In a city full of exquisite churches, this one is definitely worth seeing. Besides being beautiful, it is also one of the oldest religious sites in Toledo.
