Cathedral of Santa María de Astorga

The Cathedral of Santa María de Astorga, located in the heart of Astorga, Spain, is a remarkable testament to the evolution of Spanish religious architecture. Its construction commenced in 1471 atop the site of a former Romanesque church, and the project spanned several centuries, culminating in the 18th century. This extended timeline resulted in a blend of architectural styles, predominantly late Gothic, with significant Renaissance, Baroque, and Plateresque influences.

The cathedral’s façade is particularly striking, featuring intricate sculptures depicting five scenes from the life of Christ. Flanking the main entrance are two imposing towers, completed in the 18th century, which add to the grandeur of the structure.

Inside, visitors are greeted by the magnificent main altarpiece, a 16th-century masterpiece by Gaspar Becerra that narrates the life of the Virgin Mary. The choir stalls, crafted from walnut in the same era, showcase exquisite craftsmanship. Notable sculptures include the 12th-century “Virgin of Majesty,” reflecting Byzantine influences, and the “Immaculate Conception” by Gregorio Fernández from the 16th century.

Adjacent to the cathedral is the Cathedral Museum, established in 1954. The museum houses an impressive collection of sacred art, including paintings, sculptures, and liturgical ornaments. Highlights include the 10th-century Arqueta de San Genadio and the 12th-century Carrizo Romanesque chest, renowned for its polychrome decoration.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, art lover, or history buff, the Cathedral of Santa María de Astorga offers a rich and immersive experience that reflects the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.

Visit Notes

Despite being there in the middle of the day, I had the cathedral almost entirely to myself. I briefly saw two people, but otherwise I was able to enjoy the place all by myself.

This was one of my favorite cathedrals from my seven week trip to Spain and Portugal. The museum portion had a large number of interesting art pieces and religious artifacts. The cathedral was huge and there were so many little details to explore. One of my favorite features was the cathedral lighting. They have motion sensors to turn on the lights in the portion of the cathedral you are currently visiting. I thought this was a nice touch that rode that line between energy conservation and having enough light to enjoy the cathedral.

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