Toledo Cathedral

This massive Gothic cathedral is brimming with art treasures, including several El Grecos, a 10-foot-high gilded monstrance, and carved altarpieces that stretch to the ceiling.

Capilla Mayor Altarpiece, 1504: Top — Topmost section of the huge altarpiece (1504) in the Capilla Mayor. A magnificent example of Gothic art, it is overflowing with intricate detail and summarizes the entire New Testament with life-sized figures. Seen here, from left to right: Christ carrying the cross; Lamentation over the dead Christ; the Resurrection; and the Assumption (with Christ's feet disappearing into the clouds). Image credit: David Joyal

Overview

Toledo Cathedral in Toledo, Spain, is ranked among the greatest Gothic structures in Europe. Inside, the cathedral contains important masterpieces including a spectacular baroque high altar and two paintings by El Greco.

History

Toledo Cathedral stands on the site of the Great Mosque of Toledo, which itself had replaced a Visigothic church. Built from 1226 to 1493, the long process is reflected in Toledo Cathedral's variety of styles.

Many historic events have been hosted in the cathedral over the years, including the proclamation of Joanna the Mad and her husband, Philip the Handsome, as heirs to the throne of Spain.

Description

The primarily 13th-century architecture of Toledo cathedral was inspired by the Gothic cathedrals of France such as Chartres, but the squat proportions give it a Spanish feel, as do the wealth and weight of the furnishings and the location of the elaborate choir in the center of the nave.