The Cathedral of Seville, officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, is a magnificent Catholic church located in the historic center of Seville, Spain. It is the largest Gothic cathedral and the third-largest church in the world. It is also the burial site of Christopher Columbus.
The Cathedral of Seville was built between 1401 and 1519, and its main architect was Alonso de Covarrubias. The construction was financed by the wealth of Seville’s merchants, especially those who had recently returned from the Americas. The Cathedral was built on the site of a former mosque, and its design was influenced by both Islamic and Gothic styles.
The Cathedral of Seville is an impressive building with five naves and several chapels. Its main entrance is the Puerta de San Cristobal, which is decorated with statues of the four evangelists. Inside, visitors can admire the impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries.
The Cathedral of Seville is also home to many other important works of art, such as the tomb of Christopher Columbus and the tomb of Ferdinand III. The Cathedral also houses the Chapel of San Antonio Abad, which is the oldest chapel in Seville.
The Cathedral of Seville is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. It is open daily from 10am to 6pm and admission is free.
The Giralda
The Giralda is the iconic bell tower of the Cathedral of Seville. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city and was originally built as a minaret for the mosque that stood on the site. The Giralda is 97 meters tall and its main feature is the bell tower, which is topped by a bronze weathervane in the shape of a woman.
The Giralda is open to the public and visitors can climb to the top of the tower to get a panoramic view of the city. The climb is not easy, as it involves climbing 34 ramps and many narrow staircases, but the view from the top is well worth the effort.
The Patio de los Naranjos
The Patio de los Naranjos, or Courtyard of the Orange Trees, is a peaceful courtyard located in the center of the Cathedral of Seville. It is surrounded by arcades and features a fountain in the center. The courtyard is filled with orange trees and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
The courtyard is also the site of many important events, such as the annual Corpus Christi procession. During this event, the courtyard is decorated with colorful tapestries and a special stage is set up for performances.
Other Attractions
The Cathedral of Seville also houses many other attractions, such as the Royal Chapel, the Capilla Real de los Reyes, and the Museum of the Cathedral. The Royal Chapel is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is the final resting place of the kings of Spain. The Capilla Real de los Reyes is the oldest chapel in the cathedral and houses the tombs of Ferdinand III and Isabella I. The Museum of the Cathedral is home to a large collection of religious art and artifacts, including a replica of the Giralda.
The Cathedral of Seville is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Its impressive architecture, art, and history make it one of the most impressive churches in the world.