Bilbao Cathedral facts for kids

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint James (also known as Basílica Catedral de Santiago in Spanish or Done Jakue Basilika-Katedrala in Basque) is a beautiful Catholic church in Bilbao, Spain. It is named after James the Great, an important apostle. This cathedral was a key stop for pilgrims traveling the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago (a famous pilgrimage route). In 2015, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and cultural importance.

Quick facts for kids Bilbao Cathedral
Cathedral Basilica of Saint James
Basílica Catedral de Santiago Done Jakue Basilika-Katedrala
West portico.
43°15′25″N 2°55′26″W / 43.25694°N 2.92389°W / 43.25694; -2.92389
Location	Bilbao
Country	Spain
Denomination	Catholic
History
Status	Cathedral
Dedication	James the Great
Dedicated	30 December 1955
Architecture
Style	Gothic, Gothic Revival
Groundbreaking	14th Century
Completed	15th Century
Specifications
Nave height	22.5 m (74 ft)
Tower height	64 m (210 ft)
Bells	11
Administration
Metropolis	Burgos
Diocese	Bilbao

History of the Cathedral

This impressive church was first built between the 14th and 15th centuries. It started as the main parish church for the city of Bilbao. This makes it one of the oldest buildings still standing in Bilbao today.

The cathedral was built on the spot of an even older church. This first church might have been there long before Bilbao was officially founded in the year 1300. Back then, Bilbao was just a small fishing village.

In 1819, the church was given a special title: a "minor basilica." Later, in 1887, the tall tower with its spire and the main entrance (called the west portico) were finished. These parts were designed by a local architect named Severino de Achúcarro.

The church became a full "cathedral" on December 30, 1955. This happened after the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bilbao was officially created. A diocese is like a church district led by a bishop.

What Does It Look Like?

The Bilbao Cathedral is a mix of different building styles. You can see the Gothic style from the 15th century. This is clear in the cloister (a covered walkway around a courtyard) and the main ceiling. The cloister and the beautiful entrance to Correo street, called the "Puerta del Angel" (Angel's Door), are especially interesting.

You can also see the more decorative Gothic Revival style. This style was popular in the 19th century. It is very noticeable in the front of the church and the bell tower.

There's a fun detail to look for on the outside of the church. Along the strong supports (called buttresses) of the main ceiling, you can see stone carvings. These carvings show local merchants, which is a unique and curious custom!

Gallery

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  Bell tower.

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  Porch and south portico, by Jenaro Pérez Villaamil (1850).

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  Portico of the Angel.

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  Central nave.

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  Vaults.

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  Cloister.