Plasencia Cathedral

Among the city of Plasencia's most treasured landmarks is its unique cathedral, a monument whose most unusual feature is the fact that it is made up of two adjoining cathedrals: the old cathedral and the new cathedral.

Construction of the old cathedral began in the late 13th century and it was restored in the late 15th century. This cathedral is a fusion of two architectural styles: Romanesque and Gothic. Inside it has three naves without apse and its star attraction is an ornate statue of the young Virgin Mary. Today, it is mainly a museum.

Construction of the new cathedral began in 1498, but it was put on hold and not completed until the 18th century. Built in the Plateresque style, its façade is divided into four bodies and five panels. The boasts many outstanding features, most notably the choir and the altarpiece. The upper choir stalls are made up of 41 ceremonial chairs and the lower stalls have 26, all intricately carved in walnut. The altarpiece is a veritable gem of 17th century Baroque sculpture created by Gregorio Fernández, a renowned artist pertaining to the Castilian school.

For anyone who loves architecture, this is a great starting point to discover the noble city of Plasencia.