Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor In Spain: History,Facts, & Services

Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor is a Roman Catholic church and former collegiate church located in the city of Santander, Cantabria, northern Spain. It is a notable example of late Gothic architecture in Spain, and particularly notable for its rich decoration. The complex contains the church, a chapter house and the coro, or choir. The church was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural monument in 1931. History The foundation of the church is attributed to Diego, Duke of Santander and founder of the House of Santander, although construction did not start until the 15th century. The original structure was expanded in the 16th century, when a Puerto de la Antigua, or two-level door, was built. The church tower and the cloister were added later, during the 17th and 18th centuries, respectively. Facts The church has a single nave with a ribbed vault and cross vaults over the side chapels, with several windows and rich painted motifs. It also features a neoclassical main altarpiece, and a richly decorated choir in Renaissance style with low, panelled stalls and a richly-studded canopy in Baroque style. The church also boasts a large and impressive collection of old artworks, including works by 16th-century artists such as Juan de Herrara, Alexander de Herrera and Alberto de Vera. Services The Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor continues to host regular Roman Catholic services and devotions. It also serves as a tourist attraction, with visitors allowed to explore the church and its grounds. Additionally, the facility hosts concerts and other art and cultural events throughout the year.

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City:
Spain
state:
Cantabria (Spain)
country:
Spain
country code:
DE
postcode:
49610