Discover seven of the best cathedrals to visit in Spain. Explore the history and architecture of these magnificent Spanish religious sites, from Seville to Burgos.
The cathedrals of Spain reflect the nation’s complex history. They showcase architectural transitions from Moorish design to soaring Gothic styles. These structures offer visitors centuries of art, faith, and political history. Many stand on the sites of former mosques. They are magnificent monuments to the Reconquista and the wealth of the Spanish Empire.
Seville Cathedral: The largest Gothic cathedral in the world
Seville Cathedral is officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See. It is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. It was built between 1401 and 1506. The builders aimed to create a church so immense that future generations would call them mad. It was constructed on the site of the former Almohad Great Mosque.
The cathedral’s most famous features are the Giralda bell tower and the Tomb of Christopher Columbus. The Giralda was the mosque’s former minaret. It was skillfully converted and topped with Christian elements. The entire complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Andalucia.
Mezquita of Cordoba: A unique mosque-cathedral hybrid
The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is one of the world’s most unique religious buildings. It started as the Great Mosque of Córdoba in the 8th century. It became the largest mosque in the world at its height. It is famous for its vast forest of 856 columns and striped horseshoe arches.
After the Christian Reconquista, a Renaissance cathedral nave was built inside the mosque. This created a dramatic and complex blend of two faiths. The unique Mihrab (prayer niche) is a masterpiece of Islamic art. It remains a powerful symbol of Spain’s layered history. It’s the highlight of Cordoba, but there’s plenty more to do in the city afterwards.
Toledo Cathedral: Spain’s most significant Gothic masterpiece
Toledo Cathedral, or the Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo, is a Gothic jewel. Construction began in 1226, modelled on French cathedrals. It is the spiritual heart of Spain and one of the country’s three great High Gothic cathedrals. Its nickname is *Dives Toletana* (The Rich Toledan).
The cathedral is renowned for its immense scale and rich artistic treasures. It houses works by artists like **El Greco** and Goya. A masterpiece of Baroque sculpture is the El Transparente altarpiece. The cathedral’s historic site includes former Roman and Visigothic structures.
Segovia Cathedral: The lady of Spanish cathedrals
Segovia Cathedral is one of the last great Gothic cathedrals built in Europe. Its late completion earned it the nickname ‘The Lady of Cathedrals’. Construction began in 1525, blending High Gothic with some Renaissance elements. It is located in the main square of Segovia’s Old Town.
The cathedral features a distinctive golden dome and three huge doors. Its cloisters and museum contain valuable Flemish tapestries. The bell tower reaches nearly 90 metres. It makes it a dramatic landmark against the famous Segovia skyline, along with the Alcazar and Roman aqueduct, that makes it one of Spain’s most underrated cities.
Burgos Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Gothic masterwork
Burgos Cathedral is considered by many to be the most beautiful Gothic cathedral in Spain. Construction began in 1221. It was the first Spanish cathedral to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site independently. Its design showcases strong French Gothic influences.
The most famous features are the twin spires and the detailed Pórtico del Sarmental. The cathedral houses the tomb of the famous Spanish hero, El Cid, and his wife. The intricate star-vaulted dome is also highly notable. Its elaborate stonework reflects centuries of artistic evolution.
Salamanca Cathedral: Two distinct cathedrals combined
The Salamanca Cathedral complex is unique. It consists of two interconnected churches: the Old Cathedral and the New Cathedral. The Romanesque Old Cathedral dates from the 12th century. The colossal New Cathedral was built from the 16th century onwards.
The New Cathedral is a vast blend of Late Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Its intricate facade, known as the Plateresque facade, is famous. The two structures create a stunning architectural journey. The complex is an essential landmark in the historic university city.
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral: The pilgrimage destination
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is one of the world’s most significant pilgrimage sites. It marks the endpoint of the famous pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago. The cathedral is believed to hold the remains of Saint James the Great, the patron saint of Spain.
The exterior is largely Baroque, famous for the magnificent **Obradoiro façade**. Inside, the structure is predominantly Romanesque. Visitors often touch the central column, where Saint James is depicted. This cathedral is a vital part of Spanish religious and cultural history.
FAQs: Common questions about Spanish cathedrals
| Question: Essential facts about Spanish cathedrals | Answer: Key historical details |
|---|---|
| Why were many cathedrals built over mosques? | After the Reconquista, Christian rulers built cathedrals on the sites of former mosques. This was to symbolise the establishment of Christian authority. |
| Which of these cathedrals is the burial site of Christopher Columbus? | The Seville Cathedral is generally accepted as the final resting place of the explorer. |
| What is the architectural style of most major Spanish cathedrals? | The majority are built in the Gothic style. Many also incorporate Mudejar (Moorish) or Baroque elements. |
| What is the Mezquita famous for? | The Mezquita is renowned for its interior “forest” of columns and its blend of mosque and cathedral architecture. |
