Visiting Santa María de La Redonda Cathedral
While La Rioja is a region synonymous with wine and vintage production, its capital is equally defined by its depth of historical heritage. Logroño is home to several architectural landmarks, and the Santa María de La Redonda Cathedral stands as one of the most significant. Located in the heart of the old town, it overlooks the Plaza del Mercado (Market Square). While its exterior architecture is a masterful display, the interior holds a piece of art attributed to Michelangelo, featuring a depiction of the Crucifixion credited to the Renaissance master.
Two towers, one landmark
The history of the site is closely tied to the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James), as Logroño sits directly on this famous pilgrimage route. After the city received the status of ciudad (city) in 1431, plans were set to construct a substantial church. Work began in 1516, though it took until the 18th century for the Santa María de La Redonda Cathedral to reach the scale and appearance it maintains today. Its two baroque towers, measuring 56 and 58 meters (roughly 184 and 190 feet), are striking. The density of their ornamentation has made them symbols of the city, where locals familiarly refer to them as the Jumelles (Twins). Three main entrances lead inside, but the one located between the towers is the most impressive. Designed like a stone altarpiece and protected by a metal gate, it is a detailed piece of craftsmanship. The gates of the side chapels feature equally exceptional ironwork, and the nighttime lighting gives the space a distinct atmosphere. The core of the building is Gothic, with three naves defining the structure. These are separated by eight cylindrical columns that support the vaults with stonework ribs. Behind the ambulatory, the painting attributed to Michelangelo is on display alongside Flemish works by Gillis Congnet. It is a site of significant cultural weight.
It is not exactly spectacular, but this cathedral is still interesting to visit. The interior is finely decorated with lots of gold leaf and offers a very welcome coolness in the summer.
The exterior is really pleasant, with a pedestrian plaza surrounded by galleries, restaurants, cafes, bars, and sometimes market stalls or art exhibits. Nice.