Iglesia de San Jaime

The Iglesia de San Jaime, also known locally as Iglesia arciprestal de San Jaime, is a magnificent Catholic church situated near the Plaza de la Vila in the historic center of Vila-real, Spain. This stunning edifice, with its blend of late Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Iglesia de San Jaime offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

The Gothic Beginnings

The origins of the Iglesia de San Jaime can be traced back to the Gothic period. The initial church was established shortly after the conquest of the region, with its construction beginning on April 11, 1298. Over the centuries, this early structure underwent significant expansions and modifications. By the 15th and 16th centuries, the church had evolved into a larger temple adorned with ribbed vaults, thanks to the efforts of notable artisans like Miquel Garcia, Pere Mateu, Antoni Dalmau, Joan de Caritat, Joan Alcanyís, and Pere Compte.

One of the most remarkable features of the Gothic church was its tower, constructed between 1682 and 1703 by Jaume and Severí Sebastià, following the design of Agustí Màyquez. This tower, built with stone from the quarries of Borriol and Benadressa, still stands today as a proud remnant of the church's medieval past.

The Baroque Transformation

As Vila-real's population grew, the original Gothic church became insufficient to accommodate the burgeoning congregation. Consequently, the decision was made to demolish the old structure, except for the tower, and construct a new, larger church. The design for the new temple, crafted by Joan Josep Nadal, was selected, and he oversaw the construction from its commencement in 1753 until his death in 1763. Despite financial setbacks that halted progress in 1756, the church was eventually consecrated in 1779, with the Communion Chapel being completed in 1798.

Neoclassical Elegance

Between 1785 and 1798, the church underwent further enhancements under the direction of Bartomeu Ribelles and Vicent Gascó. Ribelles was responsible for decorating the temple and designing the Communion Chapel, choir, and main altar, while Gascó constructed and adorned the Communion Chapel with academic aesthetic considerations. The renowned painter Josep Vergara contributed frescoes depicting scenes from the life and death of Saint James, as well as Eucharistic themes in the Communion Chapel. In 1908, painter Vicent Castell added compositions to the ends of the lateral naves, further enriching the church's artistic heritage.

Architectural Marvels

The Iglesia de San Jaime is characterized by its rectangular floor plan (75 x 45 meters) and its salon-type structure, featuring three naves of equal height (22 meters) supported by eight pillars and corresponding pilasters with Corinthian capitals. The central nave is covered with a barrel vault with lunettes, while the lateral naves feature groin vaults. The central apse is adorned with an octagonal dome, soaring to a height of 33 meters, supported by an octagonal drum with arched windows.

Surrounding the presbytery are the sacristy on the Epistle side, with its oval vaulted ceiling, and the Communion Chapel on the Gospel side, with its square plan and circular-headed vault. The church boasts three main entrances, each with unique architectural features, as well as an entrance to the Communion Chapel.

The Towering Campanile

The bell tower of the Iglesia de San Jaime is an impressive 42 meters tall. Its base is square, measuring 9 meters per side, and is capped with pinnacles at the corners. The upper sections of the tower are octagonal, with semicircular openings for the bells, framed by pilasters and topped with a balustrade adorned with pinnacles. This tower not only serves as a functional element of the church but also as a striking architectural landmark.

The Parochial Museum

The Iglesia de San Jaime is home to a parochial museum that houses a significant collection of religious art and artifacts. Despite its importance, the museum has faced challenges in terms of organization and proper display. However, the collection includes notable works such as an icon of the Virgin Mary from the 15th century, altarpieces by Paolo de San Leocadio, and various pieces of silverware and liturgical items from the Gothic and Renaissance periods.

In conclusion, the Iglesia de San Jaime in Vila-real is not just a place of worship but a repository of historical and artistic treasures. Its architectural grandeur, rich history, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. Whether you're admiring the intricate frescoes, marveling at the towering campanile, or delving into the treasures of the parochial museum, a visit to the Iglesia de San Jaime promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience.