Seville’s Gothic Cathedral, Spain
And Christopher Columbus’s last resting place
It’s really quite difficult to portray in words and pictures the enormity of Seville Cathedral when you step inside. It isn’t surprising that it took over a century to build, from 1401 to 1528, although, it was consecrated in 1507.
The outside of the Cathedral
The Cathedral also known as Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, occupies the site of an existing mosque which was built during the 12th-century, gradually changes were made to reflect Christian worship.
The entrance to the Cathdral
A helpful guide
Ahhh the call of Andalucía, I love nothing more than planning a trip and so often I use the DK Eyewitness books. I find them extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into discovering more.
We used a previous version of this book to plan our southern Spanish road trips, now you can grab the revised copy.
Moorish
The Giralda ‘bell tower’ stands at 105 metres 343 feet. It was actually a former Minaret when the mosque was built, under Muslim rule.
I particularly admire Moorish architecture it is very distinctive, with its ochre and pink tones.
La Giralda - The Cathedral Tower
Bragging rights
Seville Cathedral is the third largest church in the world, behind the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida in Brazil and St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City.
A view of the Cathedral
Although, Seville Cathedral can boast to be the largest Gothic church in the world.
The Cathedral from the south
Did you know?
That the Seville’s Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1987.
Maritime Navigator
Before we visited the cathedral, I wasn’t aware that Christopher Columbus was entombed here, how amazing is that.
The tomb of Christopher Columbus from the side
Although the great explorer and navigator died in 1506, the tomb itself is more recent, from 1898.
On the four corners of the tomb stand four bearers, representing the kingdoms of Castile, Leon, Aragon and Navarra.
Christopher Columbus's tomb in Seville Cathedral
Soaring above
The grandeur of the Cathedral is incredible, and the towering columns make the people standing below look like ants in a forest.
Inside the Cathedral
The organ inside the Cathedral
Amazing detail inside the Cathedral
The total area occupied by the building is 23,500 square metres, and the Gothic section alone has a length of 126 metres and a width of 83 metres.
An ornate entrance to one chapel
Treasures within the Cathedral
Dont forget to look up
Its central nave rises to an awe-inspiring 42 metres and to give further scale, it is bordered by 80 side chapels.
Why not?
Start creating your own Spanish adventure and discover the colourful city of Seville yourself, easyJet & British Airways are just a couple of options.
Dedication
As we wander around further encircling the central nave which houses the choir, we then come across Pierre Dancart's masterpiece.
Considered one of the finest altarpieces in the world, it was the lifetimes work of a single craftsman.
Pierre Dancarts elborate altar
Home of the Archbishop past & present
You’ll find the Archbishop’s Baroque style Palace outside of the cathedral on the north-eastern side. I don’t think you’ll miss it; it’s quite a striking building with elegant red façade and large balconies.
The Archbishops Palace
Tempted to visit?
The world’s third largest church, and stroll in ancient footsteps. Go one make it into a mini-break and discover Seville’s 16 ways to tempt your senses.
Firm Favourite
Gary and I occasionally visit places of worship when we travel, and this was definitely one to remember, although my favourite is still the Mezquita – Mosque-Cathedral in Córdoba, it literally did stop me in my tracks.
The interior of the Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba
Inspired to visit Seville Cathedral?
Why not jump on a flight and head to the sun-kissed city of Seville.
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