St Nicholas' Church, Pamplona facts for kids
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San Nicolás is a very old church located in Pamplona, Spain. It's not just a place of worship; it also played an important role in protecting the people of its neighborhood a long time ago.
A Church with a Fort's Heart
The Church of San Nicolás was built in the 12th century, which means it's over 800 years old! It was designed to be more than just a church. It also served as a strong defensive building, like a small fort. This was because the different neighborhoods in Pamplona sometimes had conflicts with each other. The church's tall watch tower shows its military purpose.
In 1222, the first church, built in a style called Romanesque, was sadly destroyed by a big fire. But the people quickly rebuilt it. The new church was finished and ready for use in 1231.
What the Church Looks Like Inside and Out
The inside of the San Nicolás church is built in the Gothic style. This style is known for its tall arches, stained-glass windows, and detailed decorations. The church also has a beautiful Baroque organ, which is a very large musical instrument that makes powerful sounds.
From the outside, you can still see parts of the Gothic design, like two main doorways and the rounded end of the church called the apse. A special covered walkway at the corner, called a portico, was added much later in the 1880s. It was designed by Angel Goicoechea and built by a local builder named Blas Morte.
See also
In Spanish: Iglesia de San Nicolás (Pamplona) para niños
