Burgos Cathedral
Burgos or the Cathedral of Our Lady of Burgos is located in the Spanish city of Burgos. It is another incredible Gothic creation that competes with other similar structures in Spain. The Cathedral is the third largest cathedral in Spain and top of the list of popular attractions in the country.
Overview of the Cathedral
Construction of the Cathedral began in 1221. However, it wasn’t finished as quickly as one would have hoped, and so it was only finished between the 15th and 16th centuries. It is one of the most striking and impressive examples of Spanish Gothic architecture. The Virgin Mary’s Cathedral earned its fame not just for its original appearance but also for its impressive size.
The building has 2 towers which were built by John of Cologne in 1458. The luxurious front door is harmoniously complemented by a rose window, on top of which there are 8 statues. They are dedicated to 8 kings. There are also many structures in the Gothic style both on the facade and the interior of the cathedral.
The main façade is on the west side and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Its foundations were laid in the 13th century. The south façade is considered to be the oldest. Records indicate that it was erected in the 1230s. It is distinguished by a sculptural set including Jesus Christ, who is surrounded by angels and apostles. The eastern part was finished in the 15th and 16th centuries, when the Renaissance period was triumphant.
Original Details of the Cathedral of Burgos
The plan of the building is cross-shaped with a nave. It is about 106 metres long and has a wide aisle which is not visible to everyone. There is also a chapel in the shape of an octagon. It is dedicated to the Purification of the Virgin Mary. It is also in the Spanish Gothic style and is often called Capilla del Condestable or the Chapel of the Condestable.
The chapel is famous for its ornate patterns, heraldry and realistically depicted angels. The chapel was commissioned by the condestable of Castile, Fernández de Velasco. It is partly named after him. He was also buried on its grounds, as were the Count of Aro and his relatives.
These are not the only emblematic figures to have found their rest within the walls of the Chapel of the Presentation of Our Lady. This is how the national hero of Spain, Cid Campeador, was buried in 1919. His wife Doña Jimena also rests here. It is rumoured that the sword that belonged to the hero is also kept here.
The stained glass windows are a particular highlight when visiting the Cathedral of Burgos. Despite the sumptuous interior, these are the ones that draw the most attention. The stained glass windows are jewel-like in their execution, taking into account the light conditions in the area. The colours are selected so as not only to be pleasing to the eye, but also to illuminate the room competently. The stained glass windows are designed in such a way that they retain their original appearance after so many years. In spite of absolutely minor renovations, they convey the unique atmosphere of the cathedral.
