Toledo Cathedral
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Toledo Cathedral - by Nikthestunned (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Description
Toledo Cathedral (the Primatial Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo) is a Roman Catholic church built in High Gothic style in the 13th century. It is widely considered of the most beautiful churches in Spain. Modelled after the Bourges Cathedral (in France), it measures 120m x 59m and reaches nearly 45m in height; unusually, it consists of 5 naves with a double ambulatory. Various artistic and architectural work were added between the 16th and 18th centuries - a period corresponding to the height of Toledo's power. Highlights of the monument include the various portals, the large polychromic retable, the Sacristy with painting and frescoes by Italian and Spanish masters, the Chapterhouse, several chapels, the Baroque altarpiece called "El Transparente", and the precious Monstrance of Arfe (made of gold, silver and jewels).
Access & Transport
The Cathedral is in the centre of Toledo. The city is a quick 35' train ride from Madrid Atocha Station or 70mins car drive on the A-42 or AP-41/A-40.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining this activity with a visit of the rest of the city of Toledo, including some of its most important monuments such as the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, the Alcázar de Toledo, El Greco Museum, and the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca.
Environmental & Social
The ongoing environmental footprint is low, and the attraction provides some employments for guides as well as help maintain the city's cultural and architectural heritage
Conclusion
The wealth (literally) or art and decoration within Toledo Cathedral is quite astonishing - in fact it is popularly known as Dives Toletana, meaning "The Rich Toledan" in Latin. It is one of the country's most impressive churches and, in our opinion, worth a detour for anybody in Castilla-La Mancha or Madrid area. Considering the number of other monuments and museums in the city, spending at least one night in town is a good idea.
Key positive
Amazing artwork throughout the building and the various portals
In a city with many top-tier touristic highlights
Key negative
A little expensive for a religious building
Suitability
No religious denomination restrictions. There is wheelchair access.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 19m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Monday10:00 - 18:30
Tuesday10:00 - 18:30
Wednesday10:00 - 18:30
Thursday10:00 - 18:30
Friday10:00 - 18:30
Saturday10:00 - 18:30
Sunday14:00 - 18:30