Seu Nova

In the heart of Lleida, Spain, stands a magnificent and historically rich structure that captures the essence of Baroque architecture with a touch of classicism: the Seu Nova, or Catedral Nueva de Lérida. This cathedral, which serves as the seat of the Diocese of Lleida, was constructed between 1761 and 1781 to replace the older Seu Vella, which had been converted into a military barracks. Despite the various destructions and lootings it has endured, Seu Nova remains a treasure trove of artistic and decorative elements, including murals, stained glass windows, and liturgical ornaments.

Exterior Grandeur

The exterior of Seu Nova is an exemplary showcase of late Baroque classicism. The facade is characterized by its severe yet elegant lines, devoid of superfluous ornamentation. Composed of gray stone, the building's vertical articulation is achieved through the use of classic pilasters with Corinthian capitals. The primary facade is animated by a series of semicircular arches and bell towers capped with domes, each side of the towers featuring large semicircular openings with balustrades.

One of the most striking features is the entablature at the top of the elevation, adorned with multiple protruding moldings. The attic is topped with a balustrade that prominently displays the Coat of Arms of King Charles III, the patron of the cathedral's construction, crowned by a wrought iron cross installed in 2014 to replace the original lost in 1936.

The imposing frontispiece is divided into a central body and two lateral sections, resembling a triumphal arch. The lower part features a high socle from which pairs of smooth-shafted pilasters with Corinthian capitals rise, framing the three vertical sections and interspersing the three access arches. The lateral bodies give rise to two impressive square-based bell towers, crowned by campaniform domes decorated with four blind oculi. These towers, despite their grandeur, have never housed bells, as Lleida has traditionally used the bells of the Seu Vella.

To enter the cathedral, visitors must ascend a staircase with side accesses, leading to an atrium that serves as a shelter and vestibule, extending the nave. The atrium features three large arcades with soberly worked wrought iron gates, reconstructed in 1940.

Interior Splendor

Inside, the cathedral's design, while markedly severe and academic, also incorporates elements of a long medieval tradition. The floor plan follows the hall church type, characterized by a rectangular shape divided into three naves of equal height, allowing light to enter through the openings in the collateral walls. This design not only enhances the perception of a unified space but also its spaciousness.

The naves are separated by large pillars, each flanked by four fluted pilasters with Corinthian capitals, creating an effect of severity and elegance. The naves are covered with Florentine-style puffed vaults, typical of the early Renaissance. These vaults, used to roof square spaces, compartmentalize the naves of the cathedral.

On either side of the lateral naves, there are four chapels, and at the head of the church, articulated with an ambulatory, there are seven more chapels accessible through semicircular arches supported by columns with Corinthian capitals. The ambulatory, continuing the lateral naves, encircles the apse, forming a rectangular ensemble around an apsidal ambulatory.

The Central Nave

The central nave is a vast space that impresses with the robust and sober firmness of its pillars, clad in fluted pilasters, which rise on either side like a forest of gray stone.

Presbytery and Apse

The presbytery and apse are the most important areas of the cathedral, housing some of its most significant works, such as the Mare de Déu del Blau and the murals on the vault of the apse dedicated to the Assumption.

Murals of the Apse and Presbytery

The murals decorating the vaults of the presbytery and apse were created by Josep Serrasanta between 1954 and 1955. These frescoes depict themes dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the cathedral's titular. The apse vault features Mary triumphing over sin, represented by a serpent. On the right, Pope Pius XII is surrounded by ecclesiastical dignitaries, while the left depicts the Annunciation and the incarnation of Jesus Christ. The presbytery vault portrays the mediation of the Virgin Mary over creation, evolution, and the salvation of humanity, surrounded by angels, apostles, and saints.

Mare de Déu del Blau

One of the most representative artistic treasures of Lleida, the Mare de Déu del Blau, is venerated in the presbytery since 2001. This late Gothic image, sculpted in 1447 by Jordi Safont, is an admirable stone carving with significant polychromatic remnants. Originally situated at the Apostles' Door of the Seu Vella, it was restored in 1972, including the restoration of the hand and the addition of the bird it holds.

Chapels

Baptismal Chapel

The first chapel on the right side of the Epistle nave is the Baptismal Chapel, decorated with a mural depicting the baptism of Jesus, created by Carme Benet in 2007. The mural features over 30 figures, including Jesus, Saint John the Baptist, and the Virgin Mary, with vibrant colors and traditional figures.

Chapel of Saint Cecilia

Inaugurated in 1964, this chapel was entirely created by sculptor Jaume Perelló. The altarpiece, dedicated to Saint Cecilia, was a donation from the Lleida Urban Guard, of which she is the patron. The altarpiece features six columns and the figure of the martyr flanked by angels, with a geometric and stylized representation.

Chapel of the Holy Family

This chapel is adorned with a neoclassical altarpiece designed by architect Francisco Clavera, inspired by the old and lost altarpiece of the Pilar created by Juan Adán in 1781. The ensemble features gilded filigree and ornaments, creating a striking visual impression.

In conclusion, Seu Nova is not just a cathedral; it is a testament to the resilience and artistic heritage of Lleida. Its walls and halls echo with centuries of history, offering visitors a profound glimpse into the past and a serene space for reflection and admiration.