Valladolid Cathedral

Valladolid, Spain

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Holy Assumption in Valladolid was originally designed as the largest cathedral in Europe. Initially planned as the Cathedral for the capital city of Spain, ultimately, only 40-45% of the intended project was completed, due to lack of resources after the court moved towards Madrid, and the expenses caused by the difficult foundations of the church.

The structure has its origins in a late Gothic collegiate church, which begun in the late 15th century. The cathedral that was planned would have been immense. When construction started, Valladolid was the de facto capital of Spain, housing king Philip II and his court. However, due to strategic and geopolitical reasons, by the 1560s the capital was moved to Madrid and construction funds were largely cut. Thus the cathedral was not finished according to Herrera's design, and further modified during the 17th and 18th centuries, such as the addition to the top of the main façade, a work by Churriguera.

Its main façade is made up of two stretches of columns: the lower part, the work of Juan de Herrera, and the upper, that of Churriguera, which is characterised by its abundant decorative elements. The inside of the building is split up into three naves with side chapels between the butresses. The 15th century altarpiece is the work of Juan de Juni and depicts figures of saints. The Cathedral Museum is also to be found inside the church.

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Founded: 1589
Category: Religious sites in Spain

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4.3/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Maria Marione (2 years ago)
The cathedral is beautiful and full of historical significance. The museum inside coast a couple of euros and it’s very informative.
73zoli73 zoltan (2 years ago)
If you would like to go up to the tower, you have to go to the Tourist information office and buy the ticket or online.
nikolas magoulas (2 years ago)
Beautiful and awe inspiring cathedral. It's a must see if you are in Valladolid. Also the museum inside the cathedral is worth a visit, it's just 3 euros to enter and it's quite substantial in size with interesting religious pieces!
Vincent Oliver (2 years ago)
One of the many churches is Valladolid, with a tall slender Romanesque tower topped with an arrow covered with tiles, which makes it, the tallest Romanesque bell tower in Spain. It is visible from many parts in central town. The rest of the building is Gothic and Neo-Gothic , as it was built in the 14th century and, after later additions in different styles, it was extensively restored and rebuilt in the first half of the 20th century .Inside is rather rustic compared to other cathedrals. Entrance to the church is free, with €3 for the museum and €10 for a bell tower visit.
Wesley Santana (2 years ago)
the view from the top of the church is amazing!
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