Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación

Steeped in history and architectural splendor, the Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación in Málaga, Spain, stands as a testament to centuries of artistic and cultural evolution. This magnificent structure, located opposite the Plaza del Obispo, is often heralded as one of the most exquisite Renaissance jewels in Andalusia. Its story begins in 1487 when the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, ordered the construction of a Christian temple on the site of the former Great Mosque of Málaga, following their conquest of the city.

The Architectural Journey

The construction of the cathedral commenced in 1528 and spanned over two centuries, culminating in 1782, albeit unfinished. Initially designed in the Gothic style, the project evolved into a Renaissance masterpiece under the guidance of renowned architects like Diego de Siloé and Andrés de Vandelvira. The cathedral’s architecture is a harmonious blend of styles, with Renaissance elements prevailing over the original Gothic framework and the Baroque additions from the early 18th century.

One of the most striking features of the cathedral is its incomplete state. Known affectionately as La Manquita or The One-Armed Lady, the cathedral's southern tower remains unfinished, lending it a unique charm and a story of historical intrigue. The funds intended for the completion of the second tower were diverted to aid the American colonies during their struggle for independence from Great Britain, a gesture commemorated by a bilingual plaque within the cathedral.

Exploring the Exterior

The exterior of the Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación is a marvel of Renaissance architecture. The central façade is divided into two levels and three sections by monumental Corinthian columns set upon high bases. The lower level features three grand arches, each housing a doorway flanked by reddish marble columns. The central door is adorned with Solomonic columns, and above the doors, medallions depict the patrons of Málaga, Saint Ciriaco and Saint Paula, and the Annunciation of the Lord, sculpted by Antonio Ramos in 1743.

The Renaissance porticos of the transept are flanked by unique towers with balconies, showcasing some of the finest stonework in Málaga. These porticos feature semi-circular doors with archivolts over capitals and a body with three niches, the central one being semi-circular and the lateral ones rectangular, all of which display an interesting Palladian composition. The beautiful Portada del Sagrario, with its semi-circular arch between a series of columns, presents a curved pediment with the episcopal coat of arms in its tympanum. The lateral walls of the cathedral are marked by grand buttresses topped with classical cornices and two tiers of windows.

The Tower and Gardens

The north tower of the cathedral rises to an impressive height of 84 meters, or 92 meters if measured to the top of the spire. Positioned to the left of the main façade, the tower’s first two levels mirror the proportions of the central structure. The third level features a triple-arched opening on each side, housing the cathedral’s 14 bells, eight of which were cast by the master bell-founder Francisco Venero in 1784.

Surrounding the cathedral are lush gardens and a charming patio of orange trees, reminiscent of the site’s former life as a mosque. These gardens provide a serene escape from the bustling city and offer a beautiful backdrop for the cathedral's grand architecture.

The Majestic Interior

Stepping inside the cathedral, visitors are greeted by a vast, rectangular nave divided into three aisles, with the central aisle being wider than the lateral ones. All aisles share the same height, reaching an impressive 41.79 meters, making these the highest cathedral vaults in Andalusia. The cathedral’s layout includes side chapels along the perimeter, except at the western end, with a prominently highlighted transept, an ambulatory, and a polygonal apse.

The main altar, crafted by Diego de Vergara in 1541, is a semicircular marvel with walls punctuated by tall, superimposed windows between fluted Corinthian columns, all topped with a beautiful ribbed dome. The cathedral’s interior is a treasure trove of artistic and historical artifacts, offering a glimpse into the rich religious and cultural heritage of Málaga.

The Unfinished Legacy

The debate over the completion of the cathedral remains a topic of discussion. In addition to the missing second tower and various decorative elements, the roof of the vaults was never constructed, leading to significant deterioration within the cathedral. Efforts to restore and preserve the cathedral have been ongoing, with the most recent restoration work taking place in 2015. The ultimate goal is to complete the cathedral according to the original plans, transforming it into a fully realized Renaissance masterpiece by its 500th anniversary.

The Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación is more than just a historic monument; it is a symbol of Málaga’s enduring spirit and rich cultural tapestry. Its walls tell stories of a bygone era, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of one of Spain’s most remarkable architectural treasures.