Description of the attraction
The construction of the Granada Cathedral was started in 1523 and completed almost 200 years later, in 1703.
In 1492, Granada, the last city in Spain to be occupied by the Moors, was liberated from their rule. With her release, the long-term reconquista ended - the struggle of the Spaniards with the Muslim conquerors. A few years later, the construction of the Cathedral was conceived as a symbol of the liberation of Granada from the rule of the Moors.
The construction of the cathedral was carried out under the guidance of several successive architects. The original plan for the building belonged to the architect Enrique Egas, who planned to build a cathedral in the Gothic style, divided by five naves. In 1528, the construction was taken over by the architect Diego de Siloé, who made significant changes to the existing building design, giving it elements characteristic of the Renaissance style. The Cathedral receives its final appearance, which has survived to this day, after making adjustments and additions to its project by the outstanding architect, sculptor and artist Alonso Cano, who led the construction in the 18th century.
The facade of the building is decorated with pilasters, statues, carved bas-reliefs, turrets. The interior of the cathedral is decorated mainly in white and gold colors, which gives the interior of the cathedral a special majesty and solemnity, fills it with light and creates a feeling of spaciousness. The walls of the cathedral are decorated with magnificent paintings by Alonso Cano.
The famous Royal Chapel adjoins the cathedral, which is a polyhedron in plan, which Enrique Egas built back in 1505-1506. The remains of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella are buried here, and their kneeling sculptures are installed in front of the entrance.
Granada Cathedral is one of the most significant architectural monuments not only in Granada and Spain, but also in the whole world culture. Built over many years, it appears to our gaze in several architectural styles at once - Gothic, Renaissance, Rococo and Classicism.
