Segovia Cathedral

Segovia Cathedral, also known as Catedral de Santa María de Segovia, stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of Gothic architecture. Nestled in the heart of Segovia, Spain, this awe-inspiring edifice is often referred to as The Lady of Cathedrals due to its impressive dimensions and elegant design. Its construction spanned from the 16th to the 18th centuries, making it one of the last Gothic cathedrals to be built in Europe. As you explore this monumental structure, you'll find yourself transported back in time, captivated by its rich history and architectural splendor.

The History of Segovia Cathedral

The history of Segovia Cathedral is as fascinating as the building itself. The original cathedral, also dedicated to Santa María, was destroyed in 1521 during the War of the Communities. In response, King Charles I commissioned the construction of a new cathedral, which was to be erected at one of the highest points in the city, on the site of the former Convent of Santa Clara and part of the Jewish Quarter. The architect chosen for this monumental task was Juan Gil de Hontañón, who signed the contract on May 7, 1524. The first stone was laid on June 8, 1525.

Unlike many cathedrals, Segovia Cathedral's construction began with the western façade, rather than the apse. This unique approach resulted in three distinct phases of construction. The first phase, from 1525 to 1557, was overseen by Juan Gil de Hontañón, his son Rodrigo, and García de Cubillas. The second phase, from 1578 to 1607, saw contributions from Rodrigo de Solar, Juan Pescador, Diego de Sisniega, and others. The final phase, from 1607 to 1685, was led by Pedro de Brizuela and Francisco de Viadero. The cathedral was consecrated on July 16, 1789, by Bishop Don José Martínez Escalzo.

Exploring Segovia Cathedral

As you step through the grand entrance of Segovia Cathedral, you're immediately struck by the soaring Gothic arches and intricate tracery that define its interior. The cathedral boasts three high naves, known as the nave of the Gospel and the nave of the Epistle, along with a stunning ambulatory. The impressive Gothic vaults rise to a height of 30 meters, while the entire structure measures 50 meters in width and 109 meters in length. The powerful tower, with its stone spire, reaches nearly 90 meters into the sky.

The Main Chapel

One of the highlights of Segovia Cathedral is the Main Chapel, which features an altar commissioned by King Charles III. Designed by Francisco Sabatini, the altar was constructed between 1768 and 1775 in the workshops of the Royal Palace of Madrid. The neoclassical altarpiece is a masterpiece of marble and bronze, with a central niche housing a seated image of the Virgin of Peace, a 13th-century statue donated by King Henry IV. The statue is now covered in silver, a work completed by Antonio Vendetti in 1775. The altar is adorned with statues of saints and intricate details that reflect the skill and artistry of the craftsmen involved.

The Choir

Situated in front of the Main Chapel, the choir is enclosed by a wrought-iron screen created by Antonio Elorza in 1729. The choir stalls, brought from the original cathedral, were installed in 1558 by Juan Gil and Jerónimo de Amberes, and completed in 1790 by Fermín Huici. The Gothic-style stalls feature elaborate tracery and are reserved for the clergy and royalty. The area between the choir and the Main Chapel, known as the Via Sacra, contains the tombs of several bishops and a marble pulpit adorned with reliefs of the evangelists and the Immaculate Conception.

The Transept

The transept of Segovia Cathedral is another area of great interest. The current retrochoir, originally located in the Palace of Riofrío, was moved to its present location in 1782. The retrochoir features a central body and two wings, added later to fill the space between the pillars. The altarpiece, created by Hubert Dumandre in 1758, is made of Spanish marble and includes a silver urn containing the relics of Saint Frutos. The altarpiece is flanked by statues of Saint Peter, Saint Paul, and the Holy Trinity, with additional statues of Saint Elizabeth and Saint Philip in the wings, commemorating the parents of King Charles III.

The Organs

Music has always played a significant role in the life of Segovia Cathedral. The original organs, built in 1473 during the reign of King Henry IV, were relocated to the new cathedral after the destruction of the old one. The current organs were constructed in 1702 and 1769, respectively. The first organ, located in the nave of the Epistle, was completed by Pedro de Liborna Echevarría, while the second organ, in the nave of the Gospel, was built by Pedro Manuel de Echevarría and his son José.

The Chapels

Segovia Cathedral is home to several chapels, each with its own unique history and artistic treasures. The Chapel of Saint Anthony, granted to Bishop Antonio Idiáquez Manrique, serves as a family pantheon and features a Baroque altarpiece by José Vallejo Vivanco. The Chapel of the Pietà, also known as the Chapel of the Holy Burial, was founded by Canon Juan Rodríguez de Noreña and houses a retablo by Juan de Juni, depicting the Burial of Christ. The wrought-iron screen enclosing the chapel, created by Francisco de Salamanca in 1515, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship.

In conclusion, Segovia Cathedral is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of art, history, and architecture. Its walls and chapels tell the story of Segovia's past, while its soaring spires and intricate details continue to inspire awe and reverence. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Segovia Cathedral is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Spain's cultural heritage.