Cathedral of Ourense
Galicia
The Cathedral of Ourense, dedicated to St Martin of Tours, is a prominent Roman Catholic church located in the city of Ourense, Galicia. Founded originally in 550, the current structure was mainly built during the 12th and 13th centuries with extensive Gothic additions up to the 16th century. It is constructed on a Latin cross plan with three naves separated by cruciform pillars and pointed arches, reflecting a transitional Romanesque-Gothic style. The cathedral features notable architectural elements such as the octagonal Gothic lantern tower completed in 1505, and the richly sculpted Portal of Paradise adorned with angels and saints. Its interior houses significant chapels including Christ's Chapel, with a revered image of Christ brought from Cape Finisterre, and the Chapel of St John the Baptist. The cathedral has undergone various stylistic evolutions incorporating Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements, reflecting centuries of religious and cultural history. It was declared a national monument in 1931 and has held the status of a minor basilica since 1887. The cathedral remains a vital spiritual and historic landmark, deeply intertwined with the city's identity and Galicia's religious heritage.
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Tipp: Visitors are advised to explore the cathedral during weekdays to avoid large crowds and to consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially for special guided tours or events. The cathedral offers educational audioguides for children, making it a family-friendly destination. Spring and early autumn provide pleasant weather for visiting the cathedral and its surroundings. Modest dress is recommended as it is an active place of worship.
Interessante Fakten
- •The cathedral houses a silver-plated shrine and relics of St Facundus and St Primitivus.
- •Its Christ's Chapel contains a revered image of Christ brought from a small church on Cape Finisterre in 1330.
- •The Portal of Paradise is richly sculpted with figures of angels and saints, symbolizing entry into the Kingdom of Heaven for pilgrims.
- •The octagonal Gothic lantern tower was completed between 1499 and 1505 and rises above the crossing of the nave and transept.
- •The cathedral's choir stalls were relocated into Christ's Chapel after the demolition of the original chancel in the 20th century.
- •The north facade was reconstructed after being destroyed in 1471 during a noble dispute, combining Romanesque and Gothic styles.
- •The bell tower was repaired after damage caused by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
Geschichte
The Cathedral of Ourense traces its origins to a church founded in 550 by the Suevian king Chararic, dedicated to St Martin of Tours.
The original structure was repeatedly damaged by Moorish and Viking invasions.
The present Romanesque building was constructed mainly in the 12th and 13th centuries under Bishop Lorenzo Hispano's patronage, who also contributed to the city's infrastructure.
Gothic additions continued until the early 16th century, including the construction of the lantern tower and various chapels.
The cathedral was consecrated in 1188 and officially designated a basilica in 1887.
It was declared a national monument in 1931, reflecting its cultural and historical significance in Galicia.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Portal of Paradise12th-13th century
A sculptured portal richly decorated with figures of angels and saints, symbolizing the entrance to the Kingdom of Heaven for pilgrims arriving at the cathedral. It is a prime example of the cathedral's intricate stonework and religious iconography.
Octagonal Gothic Lantern Tower1499-1505
Completed between 1499 and 1505 by Rodrigo de Badajoz, this three-level windowed tower rises above the crossing of the nave and transept, providing light and architectural prominence.
Christ's Chapel (Capilla del Cristo Crucificado)1567
Added in 1567 by Bishop San Francisco Triccio, this chapel contains a revered image of Christ brought from Cape Finisterre in 1330, attracting devotion from across Galicia.
Chapel of St John the Baptist (Capilla de San Juan Bautista)1468
Constructed in 1468 by the Conde de Benavente, this chapel is part of the cathedral's collection of historic chapels reflecting its architectural evolution.
Main Altar and Retablo16th century
The main altar, consecrated in 1188, features a magnificent 16th-century retablo crafted by Cornelis de Holanda, sponsored by Bishop Orlando Carretto della Rovere.
Kontakt
Telefon: 608 50 55 31
