Seville Cathedral

Definition

Seville Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It reflects the wealth and power of Seville during the Spanish Golden Age, serving as a central piece of architecture that showcases the artistic achievements of the period, particularly through its connection to renowned artists like Velázquez, Zurbarán, and Murillo.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Seville Cathedral was built between 1401 and 1506 on the site of a former mosque, with the intention to demonstrate the city's dominance after the Reconquista.
2. The cathedral is famous for housing Christopher Columbus's purported tomb, adding to its historical significance.
3. Its Giralda tower was originally constructed as a minaret for the mosque and later adapted as a bell tower for the cathedral.
4. The interior features an array of chapels, altars, and art pieces that represent the culmination of various artistic styles during the Spanish Golden Age.
5. The cathedral's massive size covers approximately 11,520 square meters (124,000 square feet), making it one of the largest churches in the world.

Review Questions

• How does Seville Cathedral represent the cultural and artistic achievements of the Spanish Golden Age?
  • Seville Cathedral embodies the cultural and artistic achievements of the Spanish Golden Age through its magnificent Gothic architecture and rich interior decorations. The construction of such an impressive structure during this time period symbolized the wealth and power of Seville as a center for trade and culture. Additionally, artists like Velázquez, Zurbarán, and Murillo contributed works that can be found within its walls, linking the cathedral directly to prominent figures of this vibrant artistic movement.
• Discuss the significance of Christopher Columbus's tomb within Seville Cathedral in relation to Spain's maritime history.
  • Christopher Columbus's tomb in Seville Cathedral signifies Spain's pivotal role in maritime exploration during the Age of Discovery. After his voyages to the Americas, Columbus became a national hero, and his burial place within such an important religious structure highlights both his impact on history and the Catholic Church's involvement in colonial enterprises. This connection illustrates how Spain utilized its newfound territories to enhance its prestige and power during the Spanish Golden Age.
• Evaluate how Seville Cathedral's architecture reflects both Gothic traditions and influences from other styles that emerged during its construction.
  • Seville Cathedral's architecture is primarily Gothic but also exhibits influences from Mudejar and Renaissance styles that emerged during its construction. While it showcases typical Gothic elements such as pointed arches and ribbed vaults, elements from Mudejar architecture can be seen in decorative motifs that reflect Islamic artistry. As Renaissance ideas began to permeate throughout Spain, these influences became evident in later modifications. The blend of these styles not only marks a transitional moment in architectural history but also signifies Seville's cultural synthesis as it evolved during a transformative era.

Related terms

Gothic Architecture: A style of architecture that originated in 12th-century France and was characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, which allowed for taller structures with large stained glass windows.

Renaissance Art: An artistic movement that began in Italy during the 14th century and spread throughout Europe, focusing on humanism, proportion, perspective, and classical themes.

Alcázar of Seville: A royal palace originally developed by Moorish Muslim kings, which reflects a blend of architectural styles including Mudejar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.