Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Incarnation

The Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Incarnation, more commonly known as the Cathedral of Málaga, is a significant Roman Catholic church located in the city of Málaga, Andalusia, Spain. Its construction represents a notable example of Renaissance architecture, with its interior planned by the esteemed architect Diego de Siloe. The building's exterior facade, however, presents a striking contrast, rendered in the Baroque style.

History and Architecture

Construction of the cathedral commenced in 1528 and continued for an extended period, concluding in 1782. The interior is characterized by a rectangular plan, featuring a wider nave flanked by two aisles of equal height. The facade is divided into two levels, distinguished by three arches that lead to separate portals framed by marble columns. Carved medallions adorn the spaces above the doors; those on the lateral portals depict the patron saints of Málaga, Saint Cyriacus and Saint Paula, while the central medallion illustrates the Annunciation.

A distinctive feature of the cathedral is its unfinished south tower, which has led to the building being affectionately nicknamed "La Manquita," meaning "The One-Armed Lady." The north tower reaches a height of 84 meters, making it the second-tallest cathedral in Andalusia. Historical accounts suggest that the considerable expenses incurred during construction were partly financed by taxes imposed on ships calling at Málaga. There is also a peculiar note regarding the funds for the unfinished south tower; a plaque indicates they were used to aid the British colonies that became the United States in their fight for independence. However, parish records suggest the money may have been used instead for renovating a local roadway.

Artistic and Musical Significance

The cathedral's interior houses a collection of grand artworks. These include the Gothic altarpiece in the Chapel of Santa Barbara and 16th-century tombs within the Chapel of San Francisco. The Chapel of the Incarnation displays a neoclassical altarpiece designed by Juan de Villanueva and executed by Antonio Ramos and Aldehuela, completed in 1785. This chapel also contains 18th-century sculptures of Saint Ciriacus, Saint Paula, and representations of the Annunciation, as well as "The Beheading of Saint Paul," a painting by Enrique Simonet from 1887.

Musically, the cathedral shares a characteristic with Granada Cathedral, featuring a pair of 18th-century organs. The organs in Málaga are particularly visually impressive due to their prominent "trompetería" (horizontal pipes). Notable composers who served as maestros de capilla at the cathedral include Cristóbal de Morales in his later years, Esteban de Brito, Francisco Sanz, Juan Francés de Iribarren, and Jayme Torrens.