Basílica de Santa María la Mayor, Pontevedra, Spain

The basilica of Santa Maria la Mayor is one of the jewels in the crown of Galician Gothic architecture. It was built in the 16th century, by order of the Guild of fishermen. It was granted the status of small basilica in 1962, by Pope John XXIII.

The west façade that was designed by Cornelius de Holanda, has been built in the style of an altarpiece, with three ornately decorated sections. There is a massive transept in the south façade and the main entrance opens up under a semicircular arch, bordered by a stone jamb and ornate Baroque ornamentation. Inside there are three naves that are separated by columns. The High Altarpiece, is made of chestnut tree wood and walnut tree wood, dating back to the end of the nineteenth century. It is a work of art that was made by a cabinetmaker and woodcarver from Santiago. To the left of the south doorway lies a sculpture of the Christ of Safe Journeys, to which the faithful flock in the hope that they may be granted protection during their journeys.

References:

spain.info

Religious sites in Spain

Walls of Constantinople

The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.

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Pam S (3 years ago)
A beautiful and inspiring church. We stayed and sat for a number of minutes to just absorb the inspiration that built and has been shared here for centuries.

Richie Gill (3 years ago)
Incredible ornate church, with amazing facade

Leroy Asher (5 years ago)
Love the majestic interior.

Joseph Rodriguez (6 years ago)
Beautiful church, more than a museum, an active church with community involvement. Knowledgeable staff.

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