Cathedral of the Savior of Zaragoza
Aragón
The Cathedral of the Savior of Zaragoza, commonly known as La Seo, is a remarkable Catholic cathedral located in Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain. It stands on the site of the ancient Roman forum of Caesaraugusta and incorporates architectural elements from Romanesque, Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, reflecting centuries of religious and cultural evolution. Originally built on the remains of a major mosque, the cathedral was consecrated as a Christian church in 1121 and later rebuilt in Romanesque style starting in 1140. Subsequent Gothic and Mudéjar additions in the 14th and 15th centuries introduced distinctive brickwork and a striking Mudéjar dome, a hallmark of Aragonese architecture. The cathedral served as the coronation site for Aragonese kings until the 16th century and houses significant artworks including the alabaster main altarpiece by Pere Johan and Hans de Suabia, and a renowned collection of Flemish tapestries. Its complex structure includes five naves of equal height covered by intricate rib vaults, a Mudéjar lantern tower illuminating the presbytery, and a Baroque façade from the 18th century. La Seo's blend of styles and rich history make it a symbol of Zaragoza's diverse cultural heritage and a must-see for visitors.
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Astuce: Plan your visit during weekdays in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience. Purchase tickets online in advance to skip lines and consider guided tours to fully appreciate the cathedral's complex architecture and artworks. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Don't miss the chance to climb the Torre Mirador del Pilar nearby for panoramic views of Zaragoza.
Faits intéressants
- •La Seo stands on the ancient Roman forum of Caesaraugusta, unique among Roman cities for its forum location near the river port rather than the city center.
- •The cathedral incorporates the imprint of the minaret from the medieval mosque it replaced, visible on the current tower.
- •From 1204 to the 15th century, all Aragonese kings were crowned in La Seo, a privilege granted by Pope Innocent III.
- •The Mudéjar dome was crafted by masters Juan de Barbastro and Domingo Serrano and completed in 1376, showcasing a fusion of Islamic and Christian architectural styles.
- •The cathedral houses one of the world's three best collections of Flemish tapestries, dating from the 14th to 18th centuries.
- •Its main altarpiece, carved in alabaster by Pere Johan and Hans de Suabia, is considered a masterpiece of late Gothic art in Europe.
Histoire
The Cathedral of the Savior of Zaragoza is built on the site of the Roman forum of Caesaraugusta and the main mosque of medieval Zaragoza.
After Alfonso I's conquest in 1118, the mosque was consecrated as a Christian church in 1121.
The original Romanesque cathedral construction began in 1140, incorporating elements from the Cathedral of Jaca.
From the 14th century onwards, Gothic and Mudéjar styles were added, including the famous Mudéjar dome completed in 1376.
The cathedral became a metropolitan see in 1318, and various expansions and renovations continued into the Renaissance and Baroque periods, culminating with the Baroque façade in the 18th century.
The Mudéjar elements of La Seo were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 as part of the Mudéjar Architecture of Aragon.
Guide du lieu
Romanesque Apses12th-13th century
The lower parts of two original Romanesque apses remain visible, featuring small windows and sculpted capitals with characteristic checkered patterns. Inside, original Romanesque sculptures are preserved behind the Gothic main altarpiece.
Mudéjar Dome (Cimborrio)1346-1376
A striking Mudéjar lantern tower crowns the crossing, built between 1346 and 1376 by Juan de Barbastro and Domingo Serrano. It illuminates the presbytery and exemplifies the fusion of Islamic and Gothic architecture unique to Aragon.
Main Altarpiece15th century
The magnificent polychrome alabaster altarpiece was created by Pere Johan and Hans de Suabia in the 15th century. It is a prime example of late Gothic art, depicting biblical scenes with intricate detail and vibrant colors.
Parroquieta Chapel14th-16th century
The Gothic funerary chapel of San Miguel, known as the Parroquieta, houses the tomb of Archbishop Lope Fernández de Luna. It features Mudéjar elements and a richly decorated wooden ceiling.
Baroque Façade18th century
Constructed in the second half of the 18th century, the Baroque classical façade replaced the original Mudéjar portal. It is accompanied by a Baroque bell tower and connects with the Dean's house via an arch over the street.
