About The Cathedral of Saint Mary in Burgos, Spain:
Construction of this Gothic Cathedral was begun on July 20, 1221. Its official name is the Holy Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica Church of St Mary of Burgos.The Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos (Spanish: Catedral de Santa María de Burgos or simply Catedral de Burgos) is a magnificent Gothic cathedral in the historic center of Burgos, in the Castilla y León region of northern Spain. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and stands as one of Spain’s most iconic architectural landmarks.
Construction began on July 20, 1221, under King Ferdinand III of Castile and Bishop Maurice (an Englishman). It replaced an earlier Romanesque cathedral on the site. The design drew heavily from French Gothic models, such as those in Reims and Paris, with a Latin cross floor plan and the main structure was largely completed and consecrated around 1260, though work continued intermittently. Major 15th- and 16th-century additions included the iconic openwork spires on the main facade (by Juan de Colonia), the flamboyant Chapel of the Constable (Capilla del Condestable), and the elaborate octagonal dome (cimborrio) over the transept crossing. Later Renaissance and Baroque elements were added, with final significant works in the 18th century. The entire project spanned from 1221 to around 1567.
Built primarily of limestone from nearby quarries, the cathedral features two towering spires with open, lace-like Gothic tracery (Germanic influence), creating a dramatic skyline. Key portals include the 13th-century Puerta del Sarmental and Puerta de la Coronería (French Gothic style) and the Renaissance-influenced Puerta de la Pellejería.
The cathedral blends pure French High Gothic with later flamboyant, Renaissance, and Baroque touches, making it a “comprehensive example of the evolution of Gothic style.” It remains an active Catholic church (metropolitan cathedral) and a major tourist attraction, often praised for its grandeur both inside and out. Visitors frequently note its role on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
Interior: It measures about 275 feet (84 meters) by 193 feet (59 meters). Highlights include the star-vaulted dome, the ornate Constable’s Chapel (with the tomb of Pedro Fernández de Velasco and his wife by Gil de Siloé), the Golden Staircase (Escalera Dorada) by Diego de Siloe, elaborate choir stalls, retables (altarpieces), stained glass, and numerous tombs.
it contains many artistic treasures: works by masters like the Colonia family, Gil de Siloé, Felipe Bigarny, and others.
Notably, it also contains the tomb of El Cid, a Castilian knight and ruler in medieval Spain,
Traveling to the Cathedral of Saint Mary in Burgos, Spain:
The Cathedral is located in the historical city center of Burgos.
Address: Pl. Sta. María, s/n, 09003 Burgos, Spain
Phone: +34 947 20 47 12