Getafe Cathedral facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Getafe Cathedral |
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| Cathedral of Saint Mary Magdalene | |
| Catedral de Santa Maria Magdalena | |
The west side of the cathedral during a wedding.
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| 40°18′14″N 3°43′45″W / 40.303992°N 3.729199°W | |
| Location | Getafe |
| Country | Spain |
| Denomination | Catholic |
| History | |
| Status | Cathedral |
| Dedication | Mary Magdalene |
| Dedicated | 23 July 1995 |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Alonso de Covarrubias, Juan Gómez de Mora |
| Style | Mudéjar, Baroque, Neoclassic |
| Years built | 1549 - 1770 |
| Specifications | |
| Bells | 9 |
| Administration | |
| Metropolis | Madrid |
| Diocese | Getafe |
The Cathedral of Saint Mary Magdalene is a beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral in the city of Getafe, Spain. For most of its long history, it was a church. In 1995, it officially became a cathedral when the Diocese of Getafe was created.
The building is a mix of amazing architectural styles. Its bell tower is the oldest part, built in the mid-1300s in the Mudéjar style. This style was created by Muslims who stayed in Spain after the Christian reconquest. The rest of the cathedral was built much later, between 1549 and 1770. Famous architects like Alonso de Covarrubias and Juan Gómez de Mora designed these newer parts. They used Renaissance and Baroque styles, which were popular at the time.
Contents
History of the Cathedral
The story of this cathedral begins with a much older church. The first church on this spot was built in the 12th century. Over time, the town of Getafe grew, and the old church became too small for the community.
In the 16th century, the people decided to build a bigger, more impressive church. Construction started in 1549. It took over 200 years to finish! This long construction period is why the cathedral has so many different styles. Each new architect added ideas from their own time.
The Mudéjar Bell Tower
The bell tower is a special part of the cathedral because it's much older than the rest of the building. It was part of the original church that stood here. It was built in the Mudéjar style, which is known for its detailed brickwork and geometric patterns. This tower is a reminder of Spain's diverse history and the different cultures that have influenced its art and architecture.
Becoming a Cathedral
For centuries, the building served as the main church of Getafe. On July 23, 1995, its status changed. The Catholic Church created a new administrative area called the Diocese of Getafe, and this church was chosen to be its main center, or cathedral. A plaque inside the building celebrates this important event.
A Closer Look at the Cathedral
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The west entrance, or portico, welcomes visitors.
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A view of the front of the cathedral.
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A window showing the detailed brickwork of the Mudéjar style.
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The central nave, or main hall, of the cathedral.
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This plaque marks the day the church became a cathedral in 1995.
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The main altar is the focus of the church's interior.
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The beautiful dome high above the cathedral floor.
See also
In Spanish: Catedral de La Magdalena (Getafe) para niños
