Giralda Cathedral of Seville, located in the heart of the city, is a symbol of the long and varied history of Seville. Built in the 12th century, it is one of the most impressive and iconic monuments in the city. The cathedral was built on the site of an old mosque, which was built by the Moors in the 10th century. It is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History
The Giralda Cathedral was built in the 12th century and was originally part of the Great Mosque of Seville. After the Reconquista, the Christians took control of the city and began to build a new cathedral. The construction of the cathedral was completed in the 15th century, and it was the first large Gothic building in Spain. The bell tower, known as the Giralda, was added in the 16th century. It stands 96 meters high and is the tallest tower in Spain.
Architecture
The Giralda Cathedral is an example of Gothic architecture, with its high ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricate details. The exterior of the cathedral is made of white limestone and decorated with statues and reliefs. The bell tower, the Giralda, is a reminder of the mosque that once stood on the site. The bell tower is decorated with Arabic inscriptions and geometric designs, and is topped with a bronze statue of a weathervane, known as the Giraldillo, which symbolizes faith.
Interior
The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive as the exterior. The main nave is over 40 meters high and is decorated with Gothic and Renaissance sculptures. The walls are adorned with frescoes, and the floors are made of marble. The cathedral also contains a variety of altars and chapels, as well as a crypt. The most impressive feature of the cathedral is the choir, which is made of gold and silver.
Other Features
The Giralda Cathedral is also home to a variety of other features, including a library, a museum, and a sacristy. The library contains books from the 12th century, and the museum houses a variety of religious artifacts. The sacristy is decorated with tapestries, paintings, and sculptures.
Visiting the Cathedral
The Giralda Cathedral is open to visitors year-round. There are a variety of guided tours available, as well as audio guides in multiple languages. Visitors can also climb the bell tower to get a spectacular view of the city.
Conclusion
The Giralda Cathedral of Seville is one of the most impressive and iconic monuments in the city. Its impressive architecture and intricate details make it a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The cathedral is open to visitors year-round, and there are a variety of guided tours available.