Co-cathedral of Santa María de la Fuente la Mayor

The Co-cathedral of Santa María de la Fuente la Mayor, also known locally as Concatedral de Santa María de Guadalajara, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Guadalajara, Spain. This majestic structure, with its roots tracing back to the 14th century, is a prime example of Mudéjar architecture, a style that blends Christian and Islamic artistic elements, creating a unique and captivating aesthetic.

The Historical Significance

The Co-cathedral of Santa María de la Fuente la Mayor is not just an architectural marvel; it is also a significant historical monument. It serves as one of the episcopal seats of the Diocese of Sigüenza-Guadalajara, sharing this honor with the Cathedral of Santa María de Sigüenza. The church's construction in the 14th century marked an important era in the region's history, reflecting the cultural and religious amalgamation that characterized medieval Spain.

Exterior Marvels

The exterior of the Co-cathedral retains much of its original structure, showcasing the enduring beauty of Mudéjar design. The main entrance, located on the facade facing the Plaza de Santa María, is a magnificent example of this style. The doorways, adorned with pointed horseshoe arches of Syrian tradition, are framed by elaborate brickwork. The arches are accentuated with brick radiations and simple looped designs containing green ceramic fragments, creating a visually stunning effect.

The southern and western walls are bordered by a portico supported by high columns topped with Renaissance-style capitals, added in the early 16th century. The walls themselves are a mix of brick and masonry, with various types of plaster finishes, adding to the structure's historical charm. A square lantern made of brick, added in the early 17th century, crowns the crossing of the church, adding a distinctive feature to the skyline.

The Tower

The tower of the Co-cathedral, attached to the southern wall near the church's head, is a striking feature. Historical evidence suggests that it was once a standalone structure. The square tower, with its thick masonry walls covered in brick, is punctuated by narrow arrow slits in its lower sections. These slits illuminate an intriguing staircase that ascends to the bell chamber, where the bells are housed within high semicircular arches framed by intricate brick decorations. The tower is topped with a cornice and a later addition from the 16th century, culminating in a spire of Madrid style.

Interior Grandeur

The interior of the Co-cathedral is equally impressive, consisting of three naves separated by robust pilasters and semicircular arches. The central nave is covered with a plaster ceiling, beneath which lies an original Mudéjar coffered ceiling. The elevated presbytery and the high choir at the foot of the church add to the grandeur of the interior space.

The church houses several chapels on either side. The Epistle nave features the Chapel of the Figueroa and Torres families, which occupies the site of the old sacristy. This chapel contains the tombs of the noble family, a fine marble altar from the 19th century, and several sepulchral slabs. The Chapel of the Visitation, founded in 1480 by Alonso Yáñez de Mendoza, a relative of Cardinal Mendoza, is located at the head of this nave. Although much of the chapel's original structure has been altered, the alabaster reclining statue of its founder remains, dressed in religious attire and depicted in prayer.

In the Gospel nave, visitors can find two embedded sepulchral slabs with coats of arms, belonging to Juan Sánchez Hurtado, a commissioner of the Inquisition and parish priest of Santa María in 1636, and Manuel de Albornoz y Sotomayor, also a parish priest who funded the main altar in the early 17th century. A painting of the Virgin of the Varga adorns the wall, adding to the nave's historical significance. The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, founded by the Guzmán family in the early 16th century, contains the family’s tombs and is decorated with their colorful coats of arms and a neoclassical niche added by a descendant in the 18th century.

The Presbytery

The presbytery is a focal point of the Co-cathedral, featuring a richly decorated altarpiece from the early 17th century. This Renaissance masterpiece, of unknown authorship, is structured in two tiers and three sections, adorned with exquisite relief scenes depicting events from the life of the Virgin Mary, such as the Nativity and the Epiphany. The central section is dominated by a magnificent representation of the Assumption of Mary, with a Calvary scene at the top. The altarpiece is a testament to the artistic skill and devotion of its creators, with its vibrant polychrome and elegant structural elements.

Additionally, the presbytery houses a beautifully decorated altar frontal and a pulpit with abundant Plateresque decoration. The tomb of Juan Morales, a native of Guadalajara, is also located here. His kneeling statue, dressed in late 15th-century attire, is set beneath a modern arch, with a mid-relief scene of the Resurrection and a coat of arms above.

The Co-cathedral of Santa María de la Fuente la Mayor is not just a place of worship; it is a historical and architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of medieval Spain. Its blend of Mudéjar and Renaissance elements, coupled with its rich history, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Guadalajara. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, this co-cathedral promises an unforgettable experience.