Discover the Catholic legacy: Spain’s stunning architectural masterpieces

Spain’s cathedrals are much more than seats of bishops; they are monuments to the wealth and power of the Catholic Church, especially during the Counter-Reformation, when the church fought to regain ground lost to Protestantism. The cathedral of the 16th century was the Catholic answer to the Protestant meeting hall. Spanish cathedrals like Seville and Santiago are gigantic, richly decorated, and filled with ornate chapels. Their architecture is a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Many cathedrals are so large that they include multiple chapels, each more lavish than the last. Even smaller churches display a wealth of decoration, from intricate woodwork to shimmering gold leaf. The cathedral in Toledo is a prime example, with its towering Gothic structure and a dazzling array of artworks. The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the endpoint of the famous pilgrimage route, is another masterpiece, combining Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. Spain is also home to some of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe. The pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in the 11th and 12th centuries led to the construction of many Romanesque churches along the route, characterized by their solid, fortress-like appearance, barrel vaults, and semicircular arches. The cathedral of Santiago itself is a stunning example, with its massive façade and beautifully sculpted Portico de la Gloria. The Monastery of San Millán de la Cogolla in La Rioja, where the first written words in the Spanish language are found, is another highlight. In the Gothic period, from the 12th to the 15th centuries, architects learned to build higher and lighter structures. The use of pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses allowed for the creation of soaring cathedrals with large stained-glass windows. The Cathedral of Burgos is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its intricate spires and a stunning rose window. The Cathedral of León is another gem, often called the ‘House of Light’ for its vast expanses of stained glass. Spain’s Baroque architecture is characterized by its exuberant ornamentation, curved lines, and dramatic contrasts of light and shadow. The Royal Palace of Madrid, with its grand façade and sumptuous interiors, is a prime example. The Cathedral of Granada, with its circular plan and elaborate decoration, is another highlight. By the 18th century, Rococo brought even more decoration, with intricate stucco work and elaborate altarpieces. The Palace of Liria in Madrid is a fine example of this style. Across Spain, visitors will find a wealth of architectural treasures that bear witness to the country’s rich Catholic heritage. From the simple, solid lines of Romanesque churches to the soaring heights of Gothic cathedrals and the exuberant decoration of Baroque and Rococo palaces, Spanish architecture is a testament to the enduring influence of the Catholic Church.