Catedral de Bilbao

Cathedral in Bilbao

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mikemod

The Catedral de Bilbao, officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of Saint James, is a stunning Gothic-style church located in the heart of Bilbao, Spain. Dedicated to Saint James the Great, the cathedral has been an important stop for pilgrims traveling along the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, it is one of the oldest buildings in Bilbao and was elevated to cathedral status in 1955 when the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bilbao was created. In 2015, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with other monuments along the Camino de Santiago.

Architecturally, the Catedral de Bilbao is a blend of Gothic and Gothic Revival styles. The cloister and main vault showcase classic 15th-century Gothic elements, while the façade and bell tower, completed in 1887, reflect a more ornate Gothic Revival design. One of the most striking features is the Puerta del Ángel, a beautifully carved entrance on Correo Street. Inside, visitors can admire the vaulted ceilings, stone carvings of local merchants, and the ambulatory, which houses several chapels dedicated to different saints.

The cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark. It has undergone several restorations over the centuries, preserving its intricate details while adapting to modern needs. The cloister, a peaceful retreat within the bustling city, offers a glimpse into medieval monastic life. The cathedral also hosts religious ceremonies, concerts, and exhibitions, making it a dynamic part of Bilbao’s cultural scene.

The Catedral de Bilbao appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bilbao!

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