History of Cadiz´s cathedral
The monumental Cathedral of Cadiz is one of Cadiz’s top attractions and provides a distinctive panoramic view of Cadiz. We can say the cathedral shapes the best-known image of Cadiz. The cathedral of Cadiz dates back to the 18th century. Work started in 1722 and it was finished in 1838. Such long construction time implied the participation of different architects and the use of neoclassical elements that generated certain debates at the time due to the contrast they implied with the original plans. Due to financial difficulties, despite the cathedral was consecrated in 1838, its towers were not finished till 1846 and 1862.
During the more than 100 years of construction different architects participated in the design of the building and with 3 different styles: baroque, rococo, and neoclassical.
The original plans included building a tower higher than the one of Seville´s cathedral, but due to financial problems in the later stage of the construction, the plans were reshaped.
Interior and chapels in Cadiz´s cathedral
It has a nave and two aisles, separated by bundles of columns, a dome over the crossing, and baroque furnishings, which include beautiful chair stalls that arrive from the Charterhouse of Seville.
One of Spain´s most famous persons, musician Manuel de Falla, author of the Aranjuez Concert, is buried in the crypt of the cathedral of Cadiz. Manuel de Falla was actually born in Cadiz. The crypt is fantastic and as an anecdote, it is built below sea level.
One of the most outstanding treasures inside the cathedral of Cadiz is the figure of Saint Bruno in the San Sebastian chapel. Its author is probably Montañes, though there is some debate about this. There are in total 15 chapels at the cathedral beside the main chapel. The main chapel is impressive, decorated in bronze, marble, and jasper.
Inside the tower you will also be able to admire an impressive clock from the mid XIX century.
Cadiz Cathedral museum and treasure
Other very interesting treasures of Cadiz cathedral include a tall silver monstrance with a golden tabernacle, a processional cross (Custodia del Milon) of over 5 meters in height! And inside the cathedral museum, you will discover fantastic paintings