Church of San Sebastián, Toledo Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids San Sebastián

39°51′13″N 4°01′32″W / 39.8535°N 4.0255°W / 39.8535; -4.0255
Location	Toledo
Country	Spain
History
Former name(s)	AL-Dabbagin mosque
Founded	10th century
Dedication	St Sebastian
Architecture
Architectural type	Mudejar
Completed	15th century

San Sebastián is a historic building in Toledo, Spain. It was once a mosque called Al-Dabbagin. After the Reconquista (when Christian kingdoms took back control of Spain), it became a church. Today, it is a protected heritage site known as a Bien de Interés Cultural.

History of San Sebastián
- From Mosque to Church
Architecture of the Building
- Mudéjar Style Details
- The Tower's Past
A Place for Art and Culture
- Concerts and Exhibitions
More to Explore
See also

History of San Sebastián

From Mosque to Church

Archaeologists have found that the building was first built in the 10th century. It was a mosque named Al-Dabbagin. This mosque was located near an old city gate called Bab-al-Dabbagin. It was also close to ancient baths.

In 1085, the city of Toledo was taken back by Christian forces. After this, the building was changed into a church. It became one of six churches where people could still use the special Mozarabic Rite for their services. The church was rebuilt and updated between the late 12th and 13th centuries.

Architecture of the Building

Mudéjar Style Details

The San Sebastián building shows off the unique Mudéjar architectural style. This style mixes Christian and Islamic art and building techniques. You can see beautiful Arabic decorations throughout the building.

The Tower's Past

The church's tower was built in the 15th century. It still has features from the old minaret that stood in its place when the building was a mosque. A minaret is a tall tower from which a muezzin calls Muslims to prayer.

A Place for Art and Culture

Concerts and Exhibitions

Since 1916, the Consorcio de Toledo has managed the San Sebastián building. They use it as a concert hall and a place to show art. Many modern artists have displayed their work here.

For example, in 2017, Spanish artist Lita Mora created an art installation. It was inspired by Dante's famous poem, Inferno. In 2018, the Consorcio of Toledo held an exhibition by Swiss artist Daniel Garbade. This show was called "In Bed with Greco and Picasso".