Jaén Cathedral
The Assumption of the Virgin Cathedral (Spanish: Catedral de la Asunción de Jaén) is a Renaissance-style, Roman Catholic cathedral located in Santa María Square, opposite the Town Hall and the Episcopal Palace, in the center of Jaén, region of Andalusia, Spain.
| Jaén Cathedral | |
|---|---|
Spanish: Catedral de la Asunción de Jaén | |
Aerial view of Jaén Cathedral. | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Catholic Church |
| Year consecrated | 1660 |
| Location | |
| Location | Jaén, Spain |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Andrés de Vandelvira Juan de Aranda Salazar Eufrasio López de Rojas |
| Type | church |
| Style | Renaissance Baroque Neoclassical |
| Groundbreaking | 1249 |
| Completed | 1724 |
| Website | |
| www.catedraldejaen.org | |
The current cathedral was conceived in the 16th century to replace a previous 15th century Gothic edifice. Construction lasted for several centuries, with the original idea maintained. Of significance are the chapter house and sacristy, masterpieces of Andrés de Vandelvira and important examples of the Spanish Renaissance; the façade, built in the Baroque style with sculptures by Pedro Roldán; and the choir, built in the Neoclassical style and known as one of the largest in Spain.
Kept in the cathedral is a copy of the Veil of Veronica which probably dates from the 14th century, and originated in Siena. Acquired by Bishop Nicolás de Biedma, it is publicly displayed to the people every year on Good Friday and the Feast of the Assumption, as well as in a side chapel every Friday.