Cloister of Segovia Cathedral

The Segovia Cathedral, known as "The Lady of the Cathedrals," is a Late Gothic-style temple built between the 16th and 17th centuries (1525-1686). Its construction coincided with the Renaissance in Europe, which is why it blends Gothic with Renaissance features.

The first Segovia Cathedral was built starting in 1120 in an area near the Alcázar. It was consecrated in 1228 and had three naves, a tower, and a cloister. Over the centuries, it underwent several renovations and expansions. However, in 1520, during the War of the Comuneros, the building was damaged. Following the conflict, King Charles I ordered its demolition to build a new cathedral away from the political power of the Alcázar, saving only the cloister, the choir, and a few artistic pieces.

The new cathedral was built on the grounds of the former Convent of Santa Clara and houses, on one of the highest points in the city. The first stone was laid on June 8, 1525, under the direction of the architect Juan Gil de Hontañón. To save costs and because the artistic and religious value, elements from the old cathedral were moved, such as the 15th-century cloister by Juan Guas and the walnut wood choir.

The construction of the temple lasted over 200 years, with three main phases and the involvement of several architects. The temple was finally consecrated on July 16, 1768. A notable feature of its interior is the 157 Mannerist stained-glass windows, created by Spanish and Flemish masters, which depict biblical scenes.

UNESCO declared the city of Segovia a World Heritage Site in 1985, recognizing its historical and architectural richness, of which the cathedral is a fundamental part.