New Cathedral of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain

The New Cathedral is located adjacent to the Old Cathedral in Salamanca. It was constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries in two styles: late Gothic and Baroque. Building began in 1513 and the cathedral was consecrated in 1733.

The building began at a time when the gothic style was becoming less popular and was merging with the new Renaissance style, giving the resulting Plateresque style in Spain. However, this cathedral retained more of its Gothic character because the authorities wanted the new cathedral to blend with the old one. Thus the new cathedral was constructed, continuing with Gothic style during the 17th and 18th centuries. However, during the 18th century, two elements were added that broke with the showy form with the predominant style of the building: a Baroque cupola on the transept and the final stages of the bell tower (92 m). The new cathedral was constructed without the subsequent destruction of the old cathedral as normally happened but a wall of the new cathedral, leans on the North wall of the old one. For this reason, the old cathedral had to be reinforced, and the bell tower was constructed on the old one. Two of the main architects of the cathedral were Juan Gil de Hontañón and his son Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón in 1538.

Cracks and broken windows are visible reminders of the devastating effects of the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, still visible today. After the earthquake, repairs were necessary to the cupola and the base of the tower which were reinforced with a lining of lines of sillares, in the form of a pyramid trunk that spoiled the basic profile of the tower (this tower is a virtual twin of the tower of the cathedral of Segovia). The moment of this catastrophe is commemorated with the 'Mariquelo' tradition on October 31, when every year residents climb to the cupola high above and play flutes and drums.

References:

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User Reviews

Mister Morelight (3 months ago)
Another impressive Spanish cathedral, I would agree with other reviewers : it is more impressive from the outside. However, you are looking at some of Earth’s marvel architecture, built by giants, still standing proud, do not make the mistake of not visiting the interior (and stop listening to cheapskates who can’t afford a €10 entrance fee that also serve to maintain the building). Compared to other cathedrals (Leon or Pamplona come to mind), it is not the most ornate. There is not that much art comparatively, but the grandeur of the place makes up for it. I do agree the Old Cathedral had more interesting art and artifacts. We did not have time for the tower but it is probably worth it for the view of the city’s layout. In my pictures, you can see where the walls of the New meets the Old Cathedral, rather unique feature of using the Old to build the New. Highly recommended combined with the Epicospal palace across the cathedral for more religious art. P.S.: please leave a ❤️ if this review was helpful in planning your visit, thank you ?

Manuel (5 months ago)
Two big buildings for ona city. They didn't build the new Gothic over the old Romanesque, so they have both styles joined by a side with a door to communicate them. Impressive the high of the Gothic tower.

James Dooms (5 months ago)
Very impressive cathedral in Salamanca. We got tickets to go up the new part of the cathedral which meant going up to the bell tower. There are a lot of stairs so maybe not something for older people who aren’t able to walk because it’s quite a lot of stairs to get to the top and there are parts that are quite narrow. There are different areas of the cathedral that explain what the rooms were and the views from the top are very nice too. Definitely recommend going up here if you get the chance. Also gives you a nice orientation of the city..

Kamil NOWAK (7 months ago)
One of great looking outside and just average inside … so if you did see the best ones (St Peter, or Burgos or NotreDameParis) skip buying ticket and ignore need for the tickets- just enter pray area 95% is there

BCL ADRIAN (7 months ago)
This is one of the most beautiful buildings in Salamanca town. Salamanca has a huge amount of historical buildings with excellent detail on them. I would highly recommend a visit to this cathedral if you are passing through Salamanca or staying there for a visit. It is located right in the centre of town and you can get very nice photographs. It is within walking distance of all restaurants bars and cafes. I would highly recommend you visit inside the Cathedral. The difference between the old cathedral and new one is very historical. Tickets are 10 per adult.

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