Basilica of Saint Mary

The Basilica of Saint Mary, known locally as Basílica de Santa María, stands proudly in the heart of Alicante, Spain. This architectural gem is the oldest church in the city, with a rich history that spans centuries. Nestled in the historic center, the basilica is a stunning example of Gothic and Baroque styles, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to marvel at its intricate design.

The History of the Basilica of Saint Mary

The origins of the Basilica of Saint Mary are deeply intertwined with the history of Alicante itself. The site originally housed a mosque during the Moorish occupation of Spain. Following the Reconquista, King Alfonso X of Castile consecrated the mosque to the Virgin Mary around 1248. The initial Christian construction began around 1280 under Castilian rule and was completed under the Crown of Aragon in 1308. However, this first church was destroyed by fire in the late 14th or early 15th century, leaving only remnants of its vaults.

The current structure began to take shape around 1417, with master builders Vicente Cubelles and Rufes, who had previously worked on the Church of Saint James in Orihuela. The presence of the Catholic Monarchs' coat of arms in the vault suggests that the construction of the apse was completed around 1480. Unfortunately, another fire in 1484 destroyed the image of the Virgin Mary. The choir and sacristy were completed around 1530, incorporating elements of Renaissance architecture.

In the 18th century, significant renovations were made to the presbytery and windows in the Rococo style. A new tower was built in 1713, and the Baroque facades replaced the original Gothic ones. Between 1992 and 2005, the basilica underwent extensive restoration, including a complete overhaul of the roofs. In 2007, the church was elevated to the status of a basilica, following a request from the Alicante City Council to the Vatican.

Architectural Highlights

The Basilica of Saint Mary boasts a unique architectural design that reflects its long and varied history. The church features a single nave with side chapels between the buttresses, connected by a polygonal apse. This layout follows the Catalan or Mediterranean Gothic style. The facade is adorned with two towers, each with its own distinct character. The older tower, dating back to the 14th century, has an L-shape, while the newer rectangular tower was constructed in 1713.

The main and side portals are masterpieces of Baroque sculpture, created by Juan Bautista Borja. Inside, the apse vault is particularly noteworthy, featuring four central keystones and additional tertiary keystones. The intersecting ribs form a diamond pattern, creating a star-shaped vault. This design is reminiscent of the Murcia Cathedral and the Orihuela Cathedral, both of which belonged to the Diocese of Cartagena in the 15th century. The keystones are made of polychromed stone, depicting the Virgin Mary, the four evangelists, the coat of arms of the Catholic Monarchs, and the heraldic arms of an unidentified local benefactor.

The basilica's choir, located on the right side of the apse, was built in the early 16th century. It features a rectangular plan with a star-shaped vault supported by eight crossing arches, reminiscent of the Chapter House of the Valencia Cathedral. The sculptural elements in the choir hint at the transition to classical language, with classical moldings, rosettes, and laurel garlands, possibly inspired by the designs of Diego de Sagredo.

Artistic Treasures

The Basilica of Saint Mary is home to several valuable works of art. Among the most notable are a Gothic stone image of Saint Mary and a painted panel depicting Saint John, attributed to Rodrigo de Osona. The basilica also houses a Renaissance-style baptismal font made of white Carrara marble and a Baroque stone portal leading to the chapel of the Immaculate Conception, which features an 18th-century image by Esteve Bonet.

One of the most intriguing features of the basilica is the sepulchral chapel located next to the door of the older tower. This chapel is adorned with a flamboyant arcosolium framed by two pinnacles resting on lion-shaped corbels. The trilobed conopial arch is crowned by a finial and a frieze of vines. This work, dating from the late 15th and early 16th centuries, is attributed to the school of Pere Compte and his circle.

Visiting the Basilica of Saint Mary

A visit to the Basilica of Saint Mary is a journey through time, offering a unique opportunity to explore Alicante's rich cultural and architectural heritage. As you step inside, you'll be captivated by the intricate details and the serene atmosphere of this historic church. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, the Basilica of Saint Mary is a must-see destination in Alicante.

In conclusion, the Basilica of Saint Mary stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Alicante. Its walls have witnessed centuries of history, from its origins as a mosque to its transformation into a magnificent basilica. Today, it continues to inspire awe and reverence, inviting visitors to discover the beauty and history that lie within its ancient stones.