New Gothic Cathedral of St. Mary

In the heart of the picturesque city of Plasencia, nestled in northern Extremadura, stands the awe-inspiring New Gothic Cathedral of St. Mary, known locally as Catedral Nueva de Plasencia. This magnificent edifice, a beacon of architectural splendor and rich historical significance, is the most ornately decorated temple in the region, and it serves as the seat of the Diocese of Plasencia.

The History of the New Gothic Cathedral of St. Mary

The construction of the New Gothic Cathedral of St. Mary commenced in 1498, a project that spanned several centuries and involved some of the most renowned architects of the time. The initial plans were drawn by Enrique Egas, and over the years, the cathedral saw contributions from architectural luminaries such as Juan de Álava, Francisco de Colonia, Alonso de Covarrubias, Pedro de Ezquerra, Pedro de Ibarra, Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón, and Diego de Siloé. Despite the extensive work, the cathedral remains unfinished, a testament to the grand ambitions and challenges of its construction.

Architectural Marvels

The New Gothic Cathedral of St. Mary boasts two stunning Plateresque Renaissance facades. The main facade, completed by Juan de Álava in 1558, is a stone altarpiece divided into four sections and five streets. It features intricate designs but lacks the statues that were never sculpted. The upper body, crests, and spires were likely the work of Gil de Hontañón. The second facade, attributed to Diego de Siloé, was constructed between 1538 and 1548.

Interior Grandeur

Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by three naves of equal height, each soaring to 26 meters. This design choice was unconventional for its time, creating a sense of vast openness. The high vaults rest on clusters of columns whose ribs extend from the bases, creating a unique and beautiful effect. The open cruciform vault adds to the cathedral's grandeur.

The Majestic Altarpieces

The main altarpiece, a Baroque masterpiece from the 17th century, showcases polychrome wooden carvings by Gregorio Fernández. The altarpiece features paintings by Francisco Rizi, including the Annunciation and the Adoration of the Shepherds, as well as works by Luis Fernández and Mateo Gallardo. The tabernacle venerates an image of Our Lady of the Sanctuary, a 12th-century Gothic piece made of wood covered in silver, now displayed in the cathedral museum. The initial funding for the main altarpiece came from Bishop Pedro González de Acevedo, with later contributions from Bishop Diego de Arce y Reinoso for the polychromy and paintings.

The side altarpieces, also Baroque, include the Virgin of the Assumption by the Churriguera brothers, Alberto and Joaquín. Near the main altarpiece lies the tomb of Bishop Ponce de León, resting in a magnificent pantheon by Mateo Sánchez de Villaviciosa, featuring a praying statue of the bishop.

The Exquisite Choir

The choir screen, crafted from wrought iron in the Plateresque style, is attributed to Juan Bautista Celma. Completed in 1604 and gilded in 1763, it is crowned by an image of the Blessed Virgin. The choir houses a splendid set of choir stalls, originally from the Old Cathedral, created by Rodrigo Alemán in the Flamboyant Gothic style. Made of walnut wood, the stalls feature a variety of reliefs and carvings, including religious, profane, mythological, satirical, and fantastical themes. The central bishop's seat, flanked by seats dedicated to the Catholic Monarchs, stands out among the 41 high choir stalls and 26 low choir stalls, all adorned with intricate reliefs and crests.

The Organ

The cathedral's organ, constructed by Casai Elezgaray, is a blend of Plateresque and Baroque styles, adding to the cathedral's rich musical heritage.

The New Gothic Cathedral of St. Mary is not just a place of worship but a living museum of history, art, and architecture. Its unfinished state adds to its charm, offering a glimpse into the ambitious vision of its creators. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this cathedral promises a journey through time, revealing the layers of history and artistry that make it a true gem of Plasencia.