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Cathedral · Cáceres, Extremadura
Concatedral de Santa María
Gothic church from the 15th and 16th centuries on the square of the same name, with an unpainted cedar altarpiece and, outside, the statue of Saint Peter of Alcántara with shiny feet.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Concatedral de Santa María
The Co-cathedral of Santa María sits in the heart of the Ciudad Monumental, on the square surrounded by the Episcopal, Mayoralgo and Ovando palaces. The present church was built between the 15th and 16th centuries in Gothic style, over an earlier Romanesque temple, and since 1957 has been the co-cathedral of the diocese of Coria-Cáceres.
Inside, it has three naves of similar height, which gives the interior a spacious feel. The highlight is the 16th-century main altarpiece, carved from cedar wood and left unpainted and und gilded, with scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin, by Roque Balduque and Guillén Ferrant.
The tower, with simple lines, can be climbed, offering views of the roofs, the towers and the stork nests of the old town.
Outside, leaning on the corner of the church, stands the bronze statue of Saint Peter of Alcántara, a 16th-century saint from Extremadura, made by Enrique Pérez Comendador. Visitors often rub the statue's toes for luck, which is why they are shiny.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes, including the tower.
Best time
In the morning, to climb the tower with good light. Check opening times, which change because of Masses.
How to get there
It's on the Plaza de Santa María, a 3-minute walk from the Arco de la Estrella, inside the old town.
Tip
Climb the tower to see the stork nests up close. On your way out, look for the statue of Saint Peter of Alcántara on the corner and see the toes worn by visitors.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Concatedral de Santa María
Why is the co-cathedral's altarpiece not painted?
It was made of cedar and left the natural color of the wood, without gilding, which is rare in Spanish altarpieces.
Why do the feet of the statue of Saint Peter of Alcántara shine?
Visitors often rub the toes of the statue for luck, and the bronze has become polished.
Can you climb the co-cathedral tower?
Yes, with a ticket. From the top you can see the towers and roofs of the old town.