This underground space, virtually unknown to many visitors, was opened during the first half of the 18th century for a very specific purpose: to serve as a burial place for the clergy who worked at the parish. Unlike other monumental crypts, San Gil’s stands out precisely for its austerity. "It is not decorated at all because it is a funerary space. It only has transverse arches typical of the Baroque style and a small altar with an arch," explains parish collaborator Luis Rodríguez.
The crypt contains several tombstones made of Calatorao stone on both sides of the altar. Although most of the niches are currently empty, the tombs of three historically significant figures who were buried at the end of the 18th century still remain. According to Rodríguez, they were Captains General of Aragon and members of the Royal Audiencia of Aragon. Among them was Félix O'Neille, who was also a member of the San Luis Academy of Fine Arts.
But one of the most striking features of the site lies beneath the floor. In the central area of the crypt there is an ossuary, a large communal grave that was in use for centuries. "These types of graves were very common in churches, since, in addition to being places of worship, they were also used for burials," Rodríguez explains. The collaborator also highlights the excellent state of preservation of the complex, which was restored approximately two decades ago. "The crypt is in perfect condition thanks to a major intervention carried out at the beginning of this century," he adds.
Unlike other monumental crypts, San Gil’s stands out precisely for its austerity. Photo: David Graner
Today, both the crypt and other areas of the temple that are usually closed to the public can be visited through guided tours organized by the Alma Mater Museum, offering the chance to discover one of the most distinctive historic spaces in Zaragoza’s old town.
A CHURCH WITH CENTURIES OF HISTORY AND A DEFENSIVE ROLE
The Church of San Gil Abad is one of the most emblematic temples in Zaragoza’s old town. Although its origins date back to an old Romanesque church built after the Christian conquest of the city, the current building was constructed during the first half of the 14th century according to the characteristic models of Aragonese Mudejar architecture.
The Church of San Gil Abad is located at 13 Don Jaime I Street. Photo: David Graner
According to Rodríguez, the church did not serve religious purposes alone. It also had a defensive role, protecting local residents in the event of danger. "It was a genuine fortress church. That is why it has such high walls and an upper passage that functioned as a patrol walkway," he explains. Part of this structure can still be visited during some guided tours.
The temple underwent a major transformation during the 17th and 18th centuries. The main changes included reorienting the main entrance toward today’s Don Jaime I Street, then known as San Gil Street. Outside, the 17th-century Baroque façade and elegant Mudejar tower stand out; the latter has been declared part of Spain’s Historic Heritage. Inside, highlights include the main altarpiece dedicated to San Gil Abad, the Baroque plasterwork and the sacristy decorated with works by Ramón Bayeu, Francisco de Goya’s brother-in-law.
