Church of San Martín (Plasencia)
Extremadura
The Church of San Martín, located in the historic city of Plasencia in Extremadura, Spain, is the oldest standing church in the city, dating back to the early 13th century. Structurally composed of three naves, it preserves an inscription from 1228 on one of the jambs of its northern portal, marking its early origins. The current nave structures date from the 14th and 15th centuries, while the main chapel was constructed between 1519 and 1523. The church houses a magnificent gilded and polychrome altarpiece featuring paintings by Luis de Morales, known as "El Divino," created between 1565 and 1570. It also contains a Baroque altarpiece dedicated to Saint Blaise from 1629. Historically, the church held parish status and was one of the seven parishes in Plasencia during the 19th century, but urban growth led to its incorporation into the neighboring parish of San Esteban. In recent decades, it has been used as an exhibition hall hosting cultural events such as the "Salón de Otoño." In August 2020, the church suffered significant fire damage affecting the altarpiece and wooden roof, prompting a restoration project expected to last around two years. Situated near the Plaza Mayor, it remains a significant monument reflecting Plasencia's medieval and Renaissance religious heritage.
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Tip: Visitors should consider exploring the Church of San Martín during weekdays when cultural exhibitions may be available. Due to recent restoration efforts following the 2020 fire, check ahead for opening hours and access. The best time to visit is outside major festivals to enjoy a quieter experience. Advance inquiries about guided tours or special events can enhance the visit. Discounts may be available for students or groups through local tourist offices.
Interesting facts
- •The Church of San Martín is the oldest standing church in Plasencia, with parts dating back to 1228.
- •It houses an important gilded altarpiece with paintings by Luis de Morales, a notable Spanish Renaissance artist nicknamed "El Divino."
- •The church was affected by a severe fire in August 2020, which damaged the altarpiece and wooden roof, leading to a major restoration effort.
- •In the 17th century, the church temporarily housed the image of Santo Cristo de la Victoria from Serradilla during its transfer journey ordered by Bishop Plácido Pacheco.
History
The Church of San Martín was originally built in the early 13th century, with a dated inscription from 1228 confirming its antiquity.
Over the 14th and 15th centuries, the church underwent significant expansions and renovations, including the construction of its current naves.
Between 1519 and 1523, the main chapel was built, reflecting Renaissance influences.
The church once functioned as a parish and was one of the seven in the city during the 19th century.
However, due to urban expansion in the 20th century, its parish status was suppressed and merged with the nearby San Esteban parish.
In 2020, a serious fire caused notable damage, leading to an ongoing restoration project.
Place Guide
Northern Portal and 1228 Inscription1228
The northern entrance features a jamb with an inscription dating to 1228, marking the church's early 13th-century origins and making it the oldest existing church structure in Plasencia.
Main Chapel1519-1523
Constructed between 1519 and 1523, the main chapel showcases Renaissance architectural elements and serves as the focal point of the church's interior.
Altarpiece with Paintings by Luis de Morales1565-1570
A richly gilded and polychrome altarpiece featuring paintings by Luis de Morales, known as "El Divino," created between 1565 and 1570. This artwork is a highlight of the church's artistic heritage.
Baroque Altarpiece of San Blas1629
Dating from 1629, this Baroque altarpiece dedicated to Saint Blaise adds to the church's collection of significant religious artworks.