San Pedro (Córdoba) facts for kids
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San Pedro (which means Saint Peter) is a special church called a minor basilica in the city of Córdoba, Spain. You can find this church in the square of the neighborhood that shares its name. It's a very old and important building with a long history.
Contents
What is San Pedro?
San Pedro is a beautiful church in Córdoba, Spain. It's known as a "minor basilica," which is a special title given by the Pope to churches that are very important for their history or religious significance. The church is located in a lively area of Córdoba, making it a central part of the community.
Why is it called a Basilica?
A basilica is a church that has been given a special honor by the Pope. This means it's a very important place for worship and has a rich history. San Pedro received this special title in 2006 from Pope Benedict XVI.
History of San Pedro Church
The San Pedro church has a fascinating past that goes back many centuries. It's believed to be built on top of an even older building. This older site might have held the remains of early Christian martyrs from the 4th century AD.
How the Church Began
After King Ferdinand III of Castile took control of Córdoba in 1236, he wanted to build many Christian churches. This was to show that the city, which had been Muslim, was now Christian. So, a church dedicated to St. Paul was started here. Construction began in the late 1200s and finished in the early 1300s.
Changes Over Time
The church you see today looks different from its original design. Most of its current appearance comes from repairs and changes made over many years. Some parts of the old bell tower and two medieval gates are still there. A new gate was added in 1542 by an architect named Hernán Ruiz II.
A Special Monument
In 2006, Pope Benedict XVI gave San Pedro the special title of "minor basilica." This made it an even more important church. It is also recognized as a Bien de Interés Cultural, which means it's a protected monument of cultural interest in Spain.
See also
In Spanish: Basílica de San Pedro (Córdoba) para niños
