English
English
Contents
Detailed History Of Seville Cathedral | Timeline, Events & More
Seville CathedralHistory
Book Your Seville Cathedral Tickets
Combo (Save 13%): Seville Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Alcazar + Seville Cathedral & La Giralda Tickets
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Audio guide
More details
from
€54.90
Seville Cathedral History Explained
The idea is born
12th century
A great mosque stood where Seville Cathedral currently stands in the 12th century. It was completed in 1198 but lost its charm when King Ferdinand III took control of the city in the middle of the 13th century. The mosque was Christianised but later destroyed by an earthquake in 1356. Charles V elected to build a cathedral on top of where the great mosque stood, with Diego de Riaño ca. and Martín de Gainza designing the church. Fast forward to today, and the great mosque of Seville finds mention only in history books, except the famous Giralda bell tower, the Patio de Naranjas and the Puerta del Perdon.
Seville Cathedral takes shape
15th century
Seville Cathedral's plans were approved quickly, but the construction took over a century. Part of the reason was the committee's idea: they wanted a structure so "beautiful and so magnificent that those who see it will think we are mad". They succeeded, with Seville Cathedral, unlike Andalusia's other great Christian churches, like the cathedrals of Malaga and Granada, seeing the light of the day. The church's popularity increased with each decade and became especially known when the tomb of Christopher Columbus was added.
Seville Cathedral Today
Seville Cathedral is a reminder of Seville's rich past and the remarkable architectural skills of our predecessors. The church's Gothic architecture is unheard of in the 21st century, with most modern buildings having more or less the same design. It took over a century to construct the cathedral, which is unbelievable in this day and age, where structures are built within a year or less.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seville Cathedral's History
What is the historical significance of Seville Cathedral?
Seville Cathedral is over six centuries old. It is the largest Gothic church in the world and houses several structures that provide insight into the city's heritage and culture.
How old is the Seville Cathedral?
Seville Cathedral is over six centuries old.
How many years did it take to build Seville Cathedral?
It took more than 100 years to build Seville Cathedral.
What is the historical context in which Seville Cathedral was created?
Seville Cathedral was created on the site of Almohad Mosque, an ancient mosque.
Who designed Seville Cathedral?
Seville Cathedral was built by Diego de Riaño ca. and later Martín de Gainza
What is the architectural style of Seville Cathedral?
Seville Cathedral is built in Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.
What events or incidents have shaped the history of Seville Cathedral?
The fall of the Moorish empire in Seville shaped the history of Seville Cathedral.
Are there guided tours explaining the Seville Cathedral's history?
Yes. Guided tours explaining the Seville Cathedral's history are available.