The Puerta de Palos: The Epiphany Engraved in Seville Cathedral

The Puerta de Palos is one of the main entrances to Seville Cathedral, located on the south facade, near the Giralda. Its popular name, “de Palos,” comes from the old wooden fences, but its official name is Puerta de la Adoración de los Reyes Magos (Door of the Adoration of the Magi).

The Magic of the East in Stone 

The most striking feature of this door is its tympanum: an impressive stone sculpture depicting the Adoration of the Magi (Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar) before the Baby Jesus and the Virgin Mary.

This iconography underscores the importance of the Epiphany (the manifestation of Jesus to the Gentiles) as a central theme of the faith and welcomes those who enter the temple.

Connection to Sevillian Tradition

The Puerta de Palos is the historical and artistic link to Seville’s great devotion to the Magi.

Symbol of Faith: The sculpture is a permanent reminder of the pilgrimage and faith of the Kings.

Echo of the Parade: It reflects the vibrant tradition of the city, famous for celebrating one of the oldest and most spectacular Three Kings parades in Spain every January 5.

The Puerta de Palos is more than just an entrance: it is a gateway to art and history that blends Gothic architecture with the eternal magic of the night of the Three Kings.