Art and culture 

Badajoz Cathedral

This architectural masterpiece has been the venue for many key events throughout history, such as the Royal wedding of John I of Castile and Beatriz of Portugal in 1383.

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  2. Badajoz Cathedral

Disguised as a fortress


Location and Contact:

Plaza de España s/n
06002 Badajoz , Badajoz (Extremadura)
Opening times


Winter Schedule: Tuesday to Saturday. 11am - 1pm and 5pm - 7pm
 
Summer Schedule: Tuesday to Saturday. 11am - 1pm and 6pm - 8pm

  • This architectural masterpiece has been the venue for many key events throughout history, such as the Royal wedding of John I of Castile and Beatriz of Portugal in 1383.

    Badajoz Cathedral was constructed in the 13th century by order of King Alfonso X "The Wise". Dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, it was declared a Site of Historic and Artistic Interest in 1931.

    The first thing that strikes you is the large number of coats of arms pertaining to bishops and noblemen, as well as that of the diocese, adorning the façade. There are three entrances into the cathedral, the most important being the one known as “del Cordero” (literally, The Sheep Door), as it was the one used by the more famous figures of that period.

    The inside has twelve minor chapels and is a fine example of decadent Gothic architecture, housing some truly superb works of art. Its many outstanding features include the 17th century wrought-ironwork, which follows the Portuguese Alentejo style, as well as the huge lamp that hangs from the transept.

    We should also highlight the masonry of the choir, its three Baroque organs, the main altar, the Cathedral Museum and a magnificent collection of 16th century Flemish tapestries.

    It also boasts a tower of 41 metres in height, built by Gaspar Mendes Its outstanding design includes two magnificent windows carved in stone, one gothic and the other plateresque. It has a clock on two sides and is crowned by a bell tower and battlements, giving this metropolitan cathedral the appearance of a fortress.

  • Origin:
  • 13th century
  • Construction:
  • Cathedral
  • Art period:
  • Gothic
  • Period in history:
  • Various styles
  • Official name :
  • Historic-artistic site

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