The Cathedral Of Huesca

In 1931 the Cathedral of Huesca was declared a historic monument, which now presents a more imperative reason to visit and take photographs of the sights, both inside and out. This cathedral not only has an artistic aspect that can be seen by anyone, but it is also a multi-storied historic landmark that is full of life.

This region was recaptured from the Moors by Peter I for the Christians, at which point services were held in the largest of the mosques, Misleida Mosque. This practice continued for two centuries until construction of a new Gothic cathedral was begun on top of the mosque in 1294.

The bishop, Jaime Sarroca, disliked celebrating Catholic services in a former mosque and initiated this construction project with the blessing of his uncle, King Jaime I. However, until the completion of the cathedral in the early 16th century, the construction continued with a succession of changes due to the different styles over this period.

This has made it a unique structure which is most emblematic of the entire city. In the early 14th century the cross vaults off the side naves were constructed along with the roof for the cathedral which was made of wood. The sculptor Guillem Ingles created the Gothic artwork which decorates the front of the cathedral.

It consists of the carven images of ten angels, eight prophets and thirty other figures. The tympanum, the decorative wall surface over the entrance surrounded by a lintel and arch, is decorated with a statue of the Virgin Mary and the child Jesus. The main doorways into the church are surrounded by impressive stone carvings of the twelve apostles.

At the beginning of the 16th century, the main altarpiece of the cathedral was completed by Damian Forment, the most important sculptor of the 16th century. He designed and sculpted a large triptych from alabaster with three scenes from the Passion of Jesus Christ. This completed the construction of the cathedral at that time.

But even today, construction will continue on this impressive structure. The bell tower, which was constructed in the late 14th and early 15th centuries, was topped with a beautiful pentagonal spire which was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and not rebuilt.

However, that oversight will soon be corrected. There are plans being made for the restoration of this tower to its previous imposing stature. And if this is any indication, this will not be the last construction project for this fabulous cathedral.