Haro proudly holds the title of the wine capital of Rioja. Its name is inseparably linked with centuries-old bodegas, the famous Estación district, and even such a unique festival as the Wine Battle. However, the true soul of the city, its historic heart, beats not only to the rhythm of wine traditions. Hidden among its narrow streets and old mansions lies a real treasure that often escapes the notice of those who come here solely for tastings.
This treasure is the church of Santo Tomás, recognized as a national historical and artistic monument as early as 1931. This church is one of the key symbols of the entire Rioja’s cultural heritage. Its strategic location on La Mota hill, where Haro’s first settlement emerged, and its incredible blend of architectural styles, make it a must-see attraction.
The first thing that captures your imagination is the church’s main portal. It doesn’t look like a simple entrance to a building, but rather a gigantic altar carved directly into stone. This Renaissance masterpiece is attributed to the renowned sculptor Felipe Bigarny. His work introduced Rioja to the refined Plateresque style, which is evident in the smallest relief details depicting apostles and biblical scenes. Behind the stern façade lies a monumental ensemble filled with remarkable details, inviting you to linger and explore every corner.
The construction of the church stretched over three centuries, from the 16th to the 18th, with each period leaving its unique mark. Alongside the Renaissance portal, visitors can see the tall apse in late Gothic style and the central nave, already reflecting the Renaissance spirit. Altogether, it serves as a vivid showcase of the evolution of sacred art.
The tower deserves special attention. It was conceived and built in two stages, which makes it unique. The square Gothic base, laid in 1671, is topped by an octagonal upper section with a dome and lantern—a striking example of Baroque architecture, completed in 1720 based on the designs of Agustín Ruiz de Ascarrraga. This bold construction became a model for other towers, such as the one at the Santa María la Redonda Cathedral in Logroño, setting an architectural benchmark for the entire region.
The church’s interior contains works of great artistic value. Notable features include the choir with Baroque stalls from the late 17th century and the organ built in 1798. But the main highlight is the high altar of 1730—the largest retablo in all of Rioja, a dazzling cascade of polychrome wood that completely fills the space beneath the vault.
The so-called ‘hall church’ layout, with three naves of equal height, creates a striking sense of spaciousness and harmony. Fifteen star-shaped vaults soar overhead, and each column accentuates the monumentality of this place, letting visitors feel its historical significance.
The Santo Tomás Church is open to everyone who wishes to connect with its heritage. You can visit during regular weekend hours, and separate tours can be arranged for groups. All donations go toward preserving this symbol of Haro. For more information, call: 670 214 489, 627 243 609, and 677 840 765. This is a unique opportunity to experience a monument that links the city not only to the history of Spanish art, but also to the memory of Haro itself, a place that has always existed at the crossroads of tradition and modernity.
