Seville Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, is a Roman Catholic church in Seville, Spain. It is the largest Gothic cathedral and the third-largest church in the world. It is also one of the most famous and most visited sites in the city. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is the burial site of Christopher Columbus.
History of Seville Cathedral
The construction of the cathedral began in 1402, and was completed in 1506. It was built on the site of the former Almohad mosque. It is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and is one of the most important examples of Spanish Gothic architecture. It was built by the architects Juan Gil de Hontañón and later on, by Fernando de Valenciennes.
The cathedral has a Latin cross plan with a central nave and four aisles, a transept and five apses. It is 132 meters long, 76 meters wide and its nave is 42 meters high. The interior of the cathedral is decorated with Baroque and Renaissance elements. The main altarpiece is the work of the sculptor Pierre Dancart, and the stained glass windows were made by the Spanish painter Bartolomé Esteban Murillo.
What to See in Seville Cathedral
The Seville Cathedral is a must-see when visiting the city. Here are some of the highlights:
- The Giralda: The Giralda is the bell tower of the cathedral. It was built in the 12th century, and is one of the most iconic symbols of the city. It is the tallest tower in Spain, standing at 97 meters tall.
- The Main Altarpiece: The main altarpiece of the cathedral is a masterpiece of Spanish sculpture. It was created by the sculptor Pierre Dancart, and is made of marble and bronze.
- The Sacristy: The Sacristy is a room where the priests prepare for mass. It is decorated with tapestries and frescoes, and contains a collection of religious art and artifacts.
- The Crypt: The Crypt is located beneath the main altar. It is the burial place of Christopher Columbus, and also contains the remains of several Spanish kings and queens.
- The Treasury: The Treasury is a room that contains a collection of gold and silver religious artifacts. It is a popular tourist attraction, and is open to the public.
Visiting Seville Cathedral
Seville Cathedral is open to the public, and can be visited daily from 10am to 6pm. There is an entrance fee of €9 for adults, and €4 for children. There are also guided tours available for a fee.
Seville Cathedral is a must-see when visiting the city. It is a beautiful and majestic building, and a testament to the city’s rich history and culture. It is sure to be an unforgettable experience.