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The Story Behind Seville Cathedral history | Power, faith, and empire

Standing on the site of a former medieval mosque, Seville Cathedral rises as the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, twice the size of Notre-Dame. Explore the captivating history of Seville Cathedral, from Moorish roots to centuries of Christian grandeur and royal splendor.

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Seville Cathedral timeline

  • 1172–1198: The site was originally home to an Almohad mosque constructed during Islamic rule in Seville. 
  • 1248: After Ferdinand III conquered Seville, the mosque was consecrated as a cathedral, marking the start of Christian rule. 
  • 1401: Seville’s cathedral chapter decided to demolish the mosque and build an entirely new Gothic structure. 
  • 1402–1506: The world’s largest Gothic cathedral was built for a century by hundreds of skilled artisans and laborers and funded by local taxes. 
  • 1506 to 1594: During this period, the cathedral’s interior saw major enhancements, including the world’s largest wooden altarpiece and the transformation of La Giralda from a minaret into a bell tower. The central dome was also rebuilt after an earthquake in 1511.
  • 1888: The central dome collapsed again in 1888 and was rebuilt with more advanced engineering than ever before. 
  • 1755: Despite the Iberian Peninsula witnessing one of its most devastating earthquakes, the cathedral stood strong with only a few minor cracks to the structure. 
  • 1987: The cathedral is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the neighboring Alcazar of Seville and the General Archive of the Indies. 
  • 2006: DNA tests were conducted to resolve a long-standing controversy over whether the cathedral truly holds the remains of Christopher Columbus.

History of Seville Cathedral explained

From mosque to cathedral (1172–1402)

The site began as a grand Almohad mosque built between 1172–1198, with its minaret and courtyard surviving its conversion post 1248. That mosque gave rise to the history of Seville Cathedral, especially its Patio de Naranjos and the La Giralda.

Ambitious Gothic overhaul (1401–1506)

In 1401, the city commissioned a breathtaking Gothic cathedral to replace the mosque. Over a century, local funding and vision turned a former mosque into the monumental Seville Cathedral we know.

Structural trials & triumphs (1511 & 1888)

Domes collapsed in 1511 and again in 1888 after two major Iberian earthquakes. Each time, the builders rebounded with stronger vaults and ornate designs. The 16th-century reconstruction shaped the majestic crossing you can see at the cathedral today.

Renaissance additions & artworks (1506–1594)

Artists like Pieter Dancart and architects such as Diego de Riaño introduced stunning stained glass, a gigantic Gothic retable, and elaborate chapel woodwork—all parts of the cathedral’s layered history.

Modern recognition (1987–Today)

UNESCO declared the Seville Cathedral a World Heritage Site in 1987, celebrating its global significance. Today, over 2 million people visit annually, captivated by its scale, art, and the mystery of Columbus’s tomb.

Construction & architecture of Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral facade with Gothic architecture details in Seville, Spain.
  • Size and scale: At 135m long, 100m wide, and 40m high, the Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world.
  • Materials & styles: Limestone and brick formed its foundation. The cathedral blends Gothic architecture with Renaissance and Plateresque flourishes, like Diego de Riaño’s sacristy and chapels.
  • Key features:
    • La Giralda: The original Moroccan minaret transformed into a 104m tall bell tower.
    • Retablo Mayor: This is the world’s largest Gothic altarpiece which is 20m in height and 18m across and is intricately carved with scenes from the life of Christ.  
    • Patio de los Naranjos: A serene orange-tree courtyard that dates back to the mosque era, offering a glimpse into its Islamic roots.
    • Stained glass windows: Seventy-five vibrant windows from the 15th to 20th centuries flood the vast interior with a kaleidoscopic glow.

Why the Seville Cathedral matters today

Now managed as a living monument, this UNESCO treasure clings to its Moorish roots while dazzling visitors with its Gothic brilliance. A few key highlights of your visit include:

  • Climbing the La Giralda for citywide views
  • Gazing at Christopher Columbus’s ornate, yet controversial tomb
  • Appreciating the intricate blend of Moorish and Christian architecture at every corner.

Frequently asked questions about the history of Seville Cathedral

The Seville Cathedral was indeed built on the site of a former Almohad mosque constructed during Islamic rule in Seville.

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