The Cathedral of the Magdalene, known locally as Catedral de La Magdalena, stands as a remarkable testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Getafe, Spain. Nestled in the heart of the town's Centro neighborhood, this cathedral is not just a place of worship but a symbol of resilience, artistry, and cultural heritage. As the principal church of the Diocese of Getafe, it serves as the bishop's seat and a beacon of faith for the local community.
The roots of the Cathedral of the Magdalene stretch back to the mid-14th century when it was originally a modest Mudejar church. The only surviving element from this period is the northwest tower, constructed from brick and masonry. This tower was later enhanced in 1660 with a slate spire, crafted by master carpenters Juan Gómez, Manuel Sánchez, and Juan Valtierra, reflecting the classic style prevalent in Madrid during the Austrias era. The tower's bells, first commissioned in 1566, add a historical resonance to the structure.
By the 15th and 16th centuries, the growing population of Getafe necessitated a larger place of worship. Consequently, the original church was demolished in 1549 to make way for a grander edifice. The renowned architect Alonso de Covarrubias, commissioned by Cardinal Juan Martínez Silíceo of Toledo, provided the initial designs. Despite a promising start, the construction faced numerous delays and changes in leadership, with the project eventually falling to Juan Nantes in 1587.
The construction of the Cathedral of the Magdalene was a lengthy and tumultuous process. By 1590, the structure was mostly complete, save for the vaults, which were finally added between 1614 and 1618. However, these vaults soon showed signs of structural weakness, prompting an intervention by Juan Gómez de Mora, the chief architect for King Philip IV. He recommended demolishing and rebuilding significant parts of the cathedral, a task undertaken by Bartolomé de Barreda and later Francisco del Río. Despite setbacks, including a tragic partial collapse in 1632, the nave was completed in 1636, and the cathedral was ceremoniously inaugurated in 1639.
The final touches, including the towers and the main façade, were completed in 1770, a date proudly displayed above the main entrance. The 20th century saw further restorations, including the preservation of Alonso Cano's paintings and structural reinforcements. In 1958, the cathedral was declared a Historic Artistic Monument, cementing its status as a cultural and historical landmark.
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The Cathedral of the Magdalene is a stunning example of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with Mudejar influences evident in the northwest tower. The main façade, oriented westward, features a sober yet elegant stone portico. The entrance is marked by a semi-circular arch and a decorative frieze, topped by a relief and the completion date. The intricate iron gate, crafted by Francisco Manzano in 1770, adds a touch of grandeur.
The cathedral's interior is equally impressive, with a columnar hall design that divides the space into three naves. Thick Tuscan columns support semi-circular arches, creating a sense of solidity and grace. The central nave is adorned with vaults, while the side naves feature barrel vaults with lunettes, all decorated with Baroque plasterwork as envisioned by Gómez de Mora. The pentagonal apse and the dome over the transept, painted with frescoes depicting angels and evangelists, add to the cathedral's visual and spiritual appeal.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries brought significant renovations to the Cathedral of the Magdalene. In 1999, the cathedral was closed for extensive repairs to address structural issues such as dampness and cracks. Architect José Ramón Duralde led the restoration project, which included the installation of a heating system to prevent future moisture damage. During the renovations, archaeologists discovered remnants of a 17th-century cemetery, Mozarabic stones, and part of a wall, adding layers to the cathedral's historical narrative. The project, completed in 2007 at a cost of 4.7 million euros, was celebrated with a thanksgiving mass attended by prominent religious figures.
Today, the Cathedral of the Magdalene stands as a living monument, open to the public and continuing to serve as a place of worship and community gathering. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Getafe. Whether you are drawn by its historical roots, architectural elegance, or spiritual ambiance, the Cathedral of the Magdalene offers a profound and enriching experience.
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