Seville Cathedral, also known as Catedral de Santa María de la Sede, is one of the largest and most remarkable churches in the world.
Its story, spanning over 800 years, is a fascinating tale of conquest, transformation, and human aspiration.
It is also a remarkable fusion of architectural styles, perfectly integrating Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.
In this article, you will explore Seville Cathedral’s history and architecture, uncovering the fascinating events and transformations that have shaped this iconic landmark.
Quick snippets: Key dates in Seville Cathedral’s history
This concise timeline offers a quick overview of the major milestones in the history of Seville Cathedral.
- 1184-1198: Great Mosque – Construction under the Almohad Caliphate.
- 1248: Reconquista – Christians capture Seville, mosque converted to a cathedral.
- 1401: New Cathedral – Construction of the Gothic cathedral begins.
- 1507: Consecration – Cathedral consecrated for worship.
- 1519: Golden Era – Dome completed; Gothic altarpiece adorns the Capilla Mayor.
- 1528: Completion – Official end of cathedral construction.
- 1755: Earthquake – Damaged during Lisbon Earthquake, repairs initiated.
- 1987: UNESCO – Designated as a World Heritage Site.
The Islamic origins: The Great Mosque of Seville
The origins of Seville Cathedral date back to the Islamic period of Spain.
Between 1184 and 1198, under the Almohad Caliphate, a grand mosque was constructed on the site.
Known as the Great Mosque of Seville, it was a centerpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring a prayer hall, courtyard (Patio de los Naranjos), and a minaret—the now-famous Giralda Tower.
Transformation into a Cathedral
In 1248, King Ferdinand III of Castile captured Seville during the Reconquista, when Christians reclaimed Spain.
After the conquest, the mosque was converted into a Christian cathedral.
Some Islamic architectural elements, such as the Giralda Tower and the courtyard, were retained, while Christian additions like altars and crosses were incorporated into the existing layout.
Building the current cathedral
By the late 14th century, the cathedral built over the old mosque was in poor condition, prompting Christians to build a completely new cathedral to showcase Seville’s wealth and importance.
In 1401, construction of the current Seville Cathedral began. It was a massive project with a bold goal: “Let us build a church so beautiful and so grand that those who see it finished will think we are mad.“
Gothic features, including pointed arches, large stained-glass windows, and intricate decorations, made the cathedral an architectural marvel.
After over 100 years of construction, the cathedral was consecrated for worship in 1507 and completed in 1528.
Seville’s Golden Era: Wealth and Artistic Flourish
The 16th century marked a golden era for Seville, fueled by wealth from trade with the Americas.
As Spain’s primary trading port with the New World, Seville became one of Europe’s wealthiest cities. This prosperity funded artistic and architectural enhancements to the cathedral.
In 1519, the dome was completed, and the Capilla Mayor (Main Chapel) was adorned with a magnificent Gothic altarpiece known as the Retablo Mayor.
This altarpiece, one of the largest and most intricate in the world, took nearly 80 years to complete and is covered in gold.
During this period, the cathedral also became the final resting place for Christopher Columbus.
Find more such historical facts about Seville Cathedral
Famous features of the Seville Cathedral
The Giralda Tower: Originally the minaret of the mosque, it became the bell tower of the cathedral. It is an iconic symbol of Seville and offers panoramic views of the city.
Tomb of Christopher Columbus: The cathedral is the final resting place of the famous explorer, though there is debate about whether his remains are actually there.
The Main Altarpiece: Known as the Retablo Mayor, it is one of the largest and most beautiful altarpieces in the world, covered in gold.
The Chapter House and Treasury: These sections contain priceless artworks, religious relics, and historical artifacts.
Stained Glass Windows: The cathedral features some of the most exquisite stained-glass windows in Spain, depicting biblical scenes and saints, contributing to the ethereal atmosphere inside.
Read this: Things to see inside Seville Cathedral
Modifications over time
Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone various modifications and restorations.
In the 16th century, Renaissance-style elements were added to certain parts of the building, blending with its predominantly Gothic design.
The devastating earthquake of 1755 caused significant damage, leading to repairs and rebuilding efforts.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, further restoration efforts were undertaken to preserve the cathedral’s grandeur for future generations.
These modifications ensured that Seville Cathedral remains a vibrant symbol of the city’s history and resilience.
Modern-day importance of Seville Cathedral
Today, Seville Cathedral is not just a place of worship but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site (designated in 1987) and one of Spain’s most popular tourist attractions.
It is a vibrant symbol of Seville’s history, reflecting its transformation over time. Visitors worldwide are drawn to its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and unique blend of Islamic and Christian influences.
It hosts regular services, including the famous Holy Week processions, which draw thousands of visitors annually.
The cathedral also serves as a venue for concerts and cultural events, bridging the gap between its historical legacy and contemporary relevance.