Alicante Cathedral: A Symbol of Baroque and History

Built atop the remnants of a mosque and in Renaissance-Herrerian style, San Nicolás de Bari Cathedral in Alicante presents itself soberly on the outside and captures the attention of travelers. However, its late Gothic monastery from the 15th century, belonging to a former medieval church and connected to the temple via splendid Baroque portals, stands out with its spectacular extension. Inside this monastery, visitors can enjoy a small garden area and the impressive silence in this mysterious room, creating a harmonious contrast to the noise from the nearby streets.

alicante cathedral

The History of Alicante Cathedral

Located in the heart of the city, Alicante Cathedral was considered a co-cathedral in 1959 and shares the Catholic seat with Santa Iglesia Catedral del Salvador de Orihuela. This recognition underscores its religious and cultural significance in the region.

Designed by Agustín Bernardino, a disciple of Juan de Herrera, the cathedral is characterized by its large proportions and an impressive dome, commissioned by the Alicante architect Miguel del Real, reaching up to 45 meters in height. One of its most unique features is its blue color, which fascinates design and architecture enthusiasts who admire this distinctive detail when looking up at the temple.

Architecture and Design

San Nicolás de Bari Cathedral was built between 1616 and 1662 in Herrerian style, although it retains Baroque details that enrich its appearance. Interestingly, the marble used in the staircase leading to the Baroque altar comes from Genoa, adding an international touch to its design.

Late Gothic Monastery

The 15th-century monastery, inherited from the former medieval church, is a peaceful retreat with a small garden area. This room invites reflection and rest and offers a quiet break from the urban bustle.

Baroque Communion Chapel

One of the most prominent elements inside is the Communion Chapel, considered one of the most beautiful in the high Spanish Baroque. Designed by Juan Bautista Borja (1695-1738), this chapel features two doors, La Negra and La Santa Faz, and is configured like a small temple with a Greek cross shape, covered by arched vaults on the sides. The marble curtain of the Annunciation is a masterpiece that captures the essence of Baroque.

Prominent Elements

  • Retablo de San Nicolás: Executed by Juan de Villanueva in 1676, this retablo represents the city’s patron saint with a bust reliquary of Santa Felicitas and sculptures of patron saints San Roque and San Francisco Javier.
  • Organo del Siglo XVI: The oldest organ in the Valencian Community, an invaluable part of the musical heritage.
  • Baldaquino de Mármol y Jaspe: Created in 1688, this baldaquino adds majesty to the altar.
  • Cristo de la Buena Muerte y San Guillermo: Notable works by artists such as Nicolás Borrás, Nicolás de Bussy, Pedro Orrente, and Bautista Vera.
  • Camarín de la Virgen del Remedio: A beautiful Renaissance figure from the last century, accessible via internal stairs from the sacristy, made of marble and multicolored wood.

Artistic Heritage

Alicante Cathedral houses a rich collection of religious art, including:

  • Retablo de las Ánimas by Nicolás Borrás (16th century)
  • Cristo de la Buena Muerte by Nicolás de Bussy (17th century)
  • La Cena de Emaús by Juan Ribalta (16th century)
  • San Guillermo by Pedro Orrente (1639)
  • Adoración de los Reyes by Senen Vila (17th century)
  • San Vicente Ferrer by Bautista Vera (1702)

Events and Celebrations

As San Nicolás is Alicante’s patron saint, every December 6th a solemn mass is held in the cathedral in his honor, followed by a procession through the city’s streets. This procession includes a living San Nicolás mounted on his horse, symbolizing the residents’ devotion and religious fervor.

Sundial and Facade

On the exterior facade of Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari, there is a sundial and various inscriptions executed using the almagre technique, a red pigment previously used in decoration.

The cathedral, with a Latin cross plan and a large main section with a girola, duplicates its plan on the upper level, reaching significant height and making it impressive in Alicante’s cityscape.