Basilica of St. Mary, Durango, Spain Verified listing

Basilica of St. Mary, Durango, Spain

The Basilica Church of Santa María de Uríbarri stands in the town of Durango, in the Basque Country of northern Spain. It is a Catholic church and a historic landmark. Many consider it one of the most important churches in the region.

The building blends Gothic and Baroque styles. Construction began in the late 15th century. That part shows Gothic features. Later, in the early 16th century, builders added Baroque elements. Because of this mix, the church looks rich in style and detail.

The main nave rises higher than the side naves. The apse holds two chapels placed between large buttresses. The choir, built from 1490 to 1510, shows the Isabelline Gothic style. People also call it the Catholic Monarchs style. It stands as one of the finest examples in Biscay.

Moreover, the church has a large wooden portico. Builders added it in 1678. It follows the Baroque style but uses no columns. In fact, experts believe it is the largest wooden portico in Europe.

Inside, the church contains a grand altarpiece. It follows the Romanist Renaissance style. Master Martín Ruíz de Zubiate built it in 1578. The altarpiece honors the Virgin Mary. It adds beauty and meaning to the interior.

On March 31, 1937, the church suffered bomb damage. In 1945, local builders rebuilt it. They kept the original Gothic structure intact. Because of their care, the church kept its historic form.

Today, the basilica remains a part of Durango’s historic center. Along with nearby landmarks, it forms a Monumental Complex. The government lists it as a Qualified Cultural Asset. As a result, the church draws tourists, historians, and faithful visitors year-round.

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