Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady, Sigüenza, Spain
The Cathedral of Santa María in Sigüenza, Spain, dates back to January 1124. Bishop Bernardo de Agén conquered the city from the Muslims during the reign of Doña Urraca, daughter of Alfonso VI of León. He became bishop in 1121, before the conquest, appointed by the Archbishop of Toledo, Bernardo de Sedirac, who belonged to the Order of Cluny. This order had great influence in Castile, introduced by Alfonso VI and Alfonso I of Aragon, the Leonese queen’s husband. Later, Bishop Bernardo received privileges and donations from Alfonso VII. These allowed him to grow the new population by uniting two towns: the upper town near the castle and the Mozarabic lower town near the Henares riverbed. Today, the cathedral belongs to the diocese of Sigüenza-Guadalajara.
Many bishops worked on the cathedral over the centuries. They built it in styles that matched each period. For example, they finished the central nave in full Gothic style during the 15th century. At that time, the transept vaults were covered while Cardinal Mendoza was bishop. Decorations continued evolving until the 18th century.
The interior stands out for its Gothic look. During the 16th century, renovations removed the Romanesque side apses to create the ambulatory. The two towers on the main façade have merlons. They give the cathedral a fortress-like appearance. This design reflected the building’s temple-fortress role during those times. Because of this, people called it the “fortis seguntina,” showing its military and religious importance.
Connectivity of Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady, Sigüenza, Spain
Airways
The nearest airport is Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, approximately 130 kilometers from Sigüenza. From the airport, travelers can rent a car, take a bus, or use train services to reach Sigüenza. Another option is the Guadalajara Airport, which is smaller but closer, about 70 kilometers away.
Railways
The nearest railway station is Sigüenza Railway Station, located in the town. It connects Sigüenza to cities like Madrid and Zaragoza by regional train services. From the station, the cathedral lies within walking distance.
Roadways
Sigüenza is connected by road to nearby cities and towns. The A-2 highway connects it directly to Madrid and Zaragoza. Several regional and intercity bus services operate routes to Sigüenza. For example, buses from Guadalajara Bus Station and Madrid reach Sigüenza regularly. Local taxis and buses provide easy access from the bus stations to the cathedral.
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