Moving right along on the most known and visited places of my beloved Madrid I come to the wonderful awesome Cathedral of the Almudena. Again I have written before on it but this is just an update with new photos for the new readers and memories forever for me.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Real de la Almudena was built opposite the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) as an old church Santa Maria during the 12C. It is the episcopal seat of the diocese of the capital. It is a church 102 meters long and 73 meters high built on a mixture of different styles: neoclassical outside, neo-Gothic inside and neo-Romanesque in the crypt. It was begun to be built in 1883 and was consecrated by Pope John Paul II on his fourth trip to Spain on June 15, 1993. It is the only Spanish Cathedral dedicated by a Pope.
The main façade overlooks Plaza de la Armería, facing the Royal Palace. You can access the crypt from Calle Mayor. Unlike other cathedrals, which have an east-west orientation, that of Almudena has a north-south orientation, fruit of its design as an integral part of the complex of the Royal Palace. It is built in stone from Novelda (near Alicante) and granite from Colmenar Viejo (near Madrid).
A complete visit to the Almudena Cathedral is divided into three phases: Interior of the temple, Museum and dome, and the Crypt. The museum of the Almudena Cathedral has the mission of preserving, exhibiting, investigating the history of the diocese of Madrid. The permanent exhibition consists of objects of considerable religious and historical-artistic value from the former parish of Santa Maria de la Almudena, cradle of the current cathedral.
The mounting to the dome is a highlight for me. Halfway up is the balcony, with a perfect view of the Plaza de la Armeria of the Palacio Real. Also on the climb you can admire an impressive model of the first project of the cathedral, designed by the architect Francisco de Cubas, from the end of the 19C. But what is most impressive is the view from above, outside the dome. From here you can enjoy an excellent panoramic view, with 360 degree vision, of all of Madrid. The Casa de Campo, the sierra or mountains, the entire flat part of the south plains, the rooftops of the city center of Madrid. Everything is seen with a privileged perspective. Without a doubt, it is one of the best viewpoints in Madrid. In all a must to come here.
As usual by me some webpages to help you enjoy your trip here which is a must
Official Cathedral of the Almudena Madrid
Tourist office of Madrid on the Cathedral of Almudena Madrid
Official Cathedral of Almudena on the Museum
Tourist office of Madrid on the Cathedral of Almudena museum
There you go folks another jewel in my Madrid and you should see it too! Wonderful area, full of architecture and history of my Madrid and my beloved Spain. Hope you enjoy it
And remember, happy travels, good health, and many cheers to all!!!
