Construction of the Cathedral of Granada began in 1523 and was completed almost 200 years later, in 1703..
In 1492 Granada, the last city in Spain occupied by the Moors, was liberated from their rule. With its liberation ended the years-long Reconquista, the Spanish struggle against the Muslim invaders. A few years later, the construction of the Cathedral was conceived as a symbol of the liberation of Granada from Moors' rule.
The construction of the cathedral was led by several successive architects. The original plan belonged to the architect Enrique Egas, who intended to build a cathedral in the Gothic style, divided into five naves. In 1528 the architect Diego de Siloe took charge of the construction and made significant changes to the existing design of the building, giving it elements typical of the Renaissance style. The Cathedral received its final appearance, which has survived to this day, after adjustments and additions to its design by the outstanding architect, sculptor and painter Alonso Cano, who supervised the construction in the 18th century.
The facade of the building is decorated with pilasters, statues, carved bas-reliefs, and turrets. The interior of the cathedral is decorated mainly in white and gold colour scheme, which gives the interior of the cathedral a special majesty and solemnity, fills it with light and creates a sense of spaciousness. The walls of the cathedral are decorated with magnificent paintings by Alonso Cano.
Adjoining the cathedral is the famous Royal Chapel, which Enrique Egas built between 1505 and 1506, in the form of a polyhedron. The remains of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella rest here, and their kneeling sculptures are placed in front of the entrance.
The Cathedral of Granada is one of the most important architectural monuments not only of Granada and Spain, but of world culture in general. Erected over many years, it appears in several architectural styles at once - Gothic, Renaissance, Rococo and Classicism.
Granada Cathedral is one of the most important architectural monuments of Granada and Spain, but also of world culture.
