Church of Santiago, Toledo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of Saint James |
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| Iglesia de Santiago el Mayor | |
The front of the church in 2025
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| 39°51′43″N 4°01′32″W / 39.8620°N 4.0255°W | |
| Location | Toledo |
| Country | Spain |
| Denomination | Catholic |
| History | |
| Dedication | James the Great |
| Architecture | |
| Style | Mudéjar |
| Years built | 13th Century |
| Administration | |
| Metropolis | Toledo |
The Church of Saint James the Great is a historic Catholic church in the city of Toledo, Spain. In Spanish, it is called Iglesia de Santiago el Mayor or de Santiago del Arrabal. Built in the 13th century, it is a famous example of Mudéjar style, a unique artistic style that blends Christian and Islamic designs.
Contents
A Church with a Long History
The spot where the Church of Saint James stands has been important for a very long time. Before the church was built, other buildings stood here. First, there was a structure from the time of the Visigoths, an ancient Germanic people who ruled Spain. Later, a mosque was built on the site, which was in use as early as 1125.
How the Church Was Built
The story of the church we see today began between 1245 and 1247. A king named Sancho II ordered its construction. However, when the king died in 1248, the work stopped for a while.
Later, a noble family called the Diosdados helped to get the building started again. This family was part of the Order of Santiago, a group of religious knights. Thanks to their support, the church was finished.
Unique Architectural Style
The church is special because of its Mudéjar style. This style was created by Muslim artists who lived in Christian parts of Spain. It mixes beautiful Islamic art with features of Christian churches. It also has some details from the Romanesque style, which was popular in the Kingdom of Castile at the time.
The church's bell tower is also interesting. It was built using parts of the old mosque's minaret, which was the tower used to call people to prayer.
Restoring the Church
Over the centuries, the church needed repairs. A major restoration took place between 1958 and 1973. Much of how the church looks today is because of this careful work to preserve its history.
References
See also
In Spanish: Iglesia de Santiago del Arrabal (Toledo) para niños
