La Catedral de Sevilla

So here's the point where I play blog catch-up for a little while...first up, La Catedral.

Last Wednesday, for another field trip with our SEVI 410 class at EUSA, we went to La Catedral de Sevilla, which holds the Guinness Book of World Records Record for the largest cathedral (it's true I saw the certificate). This cathedral is not only a sacred place of worship, but also home to thousands of pieces of art work, Spanish history AND CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS' tomb! Going into the visit, I was most excited to see this piece of exploration history that I have learned about all my life! According to one of my professors, the funny thing is that the location of Columbus' body was disputed for a long time--in 2006, Spain did DNA testing of the remains in her tomb (based on the remains of all of Columbus' family, who are also buried at the cathedral), and lo and behold, received proof that he really is in Spain. The Dominican Republic also claims the body...however refuses to prove it--I smell a rat. Although the remains in Sevilla aren't completely intact, it's AWESOME to know I've seen the tomb of one of the greatest explorers.

Here Lies Christopher Columbus...

Overall, the cathedral is incredibly gorgeous, it's Gothic architecture so just like one you would imagine. Huge arches, ornate walls and alters, gold plated installations, all so gorgeous! The cathedral is also still used for mass, though only a smaller portion is open to the public for this reason. Another major part of the cathedral is the towering Giralda, where visitors can climb to the top and see an incredible view of the city of Sevilla! Another fun fact (relief for us): there are no stairs inside La Giralda, but ramps instead. Why? So men could ride their horses up to the top. Crazy Spaniards I tell you!

View from top of La Giralda

But overall, one of the most beautiful buildings I have seen--as I often walk by it and stare at its incredible architecture, I am reminded about how truly incredible it is to be studying here and how thankful I am for the opportunity. I mean it's not everyday you get to walk by the world's largest cathedral and final resting place of Columbus like it's nothing. Only in Sevilla, my friends. And for that I am incredible grateful! Viva Sevilla, viva España!