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Basílica de Santa María de la Asunción, Arcos de la Frontera facts for kids

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Basílica de Santa María de la Asunción
Native name
Spanish: Iglesia Parroquial de Santa María
Arcos 2022 005 (2).jpg
Location Arcos de la Frontera, Spain
Official name: Iglesia Parroquial de Santa María
Type Non-movable
Criteria Monument
Designated 1931
Reference no. RI-51-0000504

The Basílica de Santa María de la Asunción is a beautiful old church located in Arcos de la Frontera, a town in southern Spain. It's in a region called Andalusia. This church was built a very long time ago, between the 1400s and 1500s. Because it's so important, it was officially recognized as a special historical monument in 1931.

Did you know that this church stands on a site with an even older history? People believe there was a building here as far back as the 700s or 800s. The church was actually built on top of what used to be a mosque from the Moorish period in Spain.

History of the Basílica

The story of this church's location goes back over a thousand years. Before the current church was built, there was a mosque here. This mosque was built during the time when the Moors ruled parts of Spain.

When Christian rule returned to the area, the mosque was replaced. The construction of the Basílica as we see it today began in the 15th century. It continued into the 16th century. This shows how different cultures and religions have shaped the history of this place.

Architecture and Design

The Basílica de Santa María de la Asunción has a very interesting mix of styles. The main front part of the church, called the facade, shows a style known as Gothic-Plateresque.

  • Gothic style is known for its tall, pointed arches and large stained-glass windows.
  • Plateresque style is a Spanish Renaissance style. It's famous for its very detailed decorations. These decorations often look like the intricate work of silversmiths.

The church also has a tower that was added later. This tower is built in a neoclassical style. Neoclassical architecture uses ideas from ancient Greek and Roman buildings. This mix of styles makes the Basílica a unique and beautiful building to explore.

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