The Toledo Cathedral is one of the most impressive and beautiful cathedrals in Spain. Located in the city of Toledo, it is the seat of the Primate Archbishop of Spain and is one of the most visited monuments in the country. The cathedral is considered to be one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Spain and is the second-largest church in the country after the Seville Cathedral.
History of the Toledo Cathedral
The construction of the cathedral began in 1226 and was completed in 1493. It was built in the style of the French Gothic, although it has some elements of the Mudéjar style. The cathedral was built on the site of a former mosque, which was destroyed by the Christians in the 13th century. The cathedral was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986.
Architecture
The Toledo Cathedral is an impressive example of Gothic architecture. The facade is decorated with sculptures, gargoyles and stained glass windows. Inside, the cathedral is divided into three naves and is decorated with a variety of artworks and sculptures, including works by El Greco, Velázquez, Goya and Rubens. The main altar is made of marble and gold and is decorated with numerous statues and reliefs.
Chapels
The Toledo Cathedral has several chapels, including the Chapel of St. James, the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception and the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament. The chapel of St. James is the most important, as it houses the remains of the Catholic Kings Ferdinand and Isabella. The chapel of the Immaculate Conception houses the tomb of El Greco and the chapel of the Holy Sacrament contains the relics of St. Ildefonso, the patron saint of Toledo.
Other Features
The Toledo Cathedral also houses several other features, such as the Tower of the Cathedral, which was built in the 16th century and is one of the tallest in Spain. The tower has a clock and two bells, which chime every day at noon. The cathedral also has a library, which houses a collection of more than 10,000 books.
Conclusion
The Toledo Cathedral is one of the most impressive and beautiful cathedrals in Spain. It is a testament to the skill and artistry of the architects and craftsmen who created it. With its impressive facade, chapels, library and tower, it is a must-see for anyone visiting the city of Toledo.