Cathedral of Mary Immaculate, Mother of the Church, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain Verified listing

Cathedral of Mary Immaculate, Mother of the Church, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain

The Cathedral of Mary Immaculate stands in central Vitoria-Gasteiz, in the Basque Country, Spain. Locals often call it the New Cathedral to set it apart from the Old Cathedral of Saint Mary. The older church dates to the 13th century and sits in the upper part of the city. By contrast, construction of the New Cathedral began in the early 20th century. Builders followed a neo-Gothic design and aimed for tall towers and rich decoration. However, limited funds prevented them from finishing the original plans. As a result, the church looks lower and simpler than first intended.

Even so, it remains one of the largest cathedrals in Spain. It also stands as one of the last major cathedrals built in the country. Mass takes place both in the main church and in the crypt below. The crypt also works as a parish, serving the local community with regular services and daily worship.

Despite its incomplete structure, the cathedral shows impressive artistic value. Outside, sculptors added modernist carvings to panels and the apse. Inside, chapels, the retrochoir, and the crypt feature fine stone decoration. These elements give the church character and beauty throughout. The building belongs to the Diocese of Vitoria. It also houses the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art of Álava.

The museum displays paintings, carvings, and religious items from the region. Visitors come for both prayer and learning. Some explore its architecture, while others admire the art and history. Although the builders never completed the full design, the cathedral still inspires awe. It reflects faith, hard work, and strong community values. The people of Vitoria treasure this church as part of their heritage. It remains a proud symbol of the city’s spiritual and cultural life today.

For More Churches