Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Catherine of Alexandria

Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria

The Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria is the principal church and episcopal see of the Archbishop of Cartagena de Indias in Colombia. Located in the historic heart of Cartagena, it stands as one of the oldest episcopal sees established in the Americas. The current structure was constructed between 1577 and 1612, replacing more rudimentary earlier churches built with wood and reeds. Its design, overseen by master builder Simón González, drew inspiration from the architectural styles of basilicas found in Andalusia and the Canary Islands.

History and Construction

The history of cathedrals in Cartagena dates back to the city's founding. The first cathedral, a humble structure of "thatched roof and reeds," was built between 1535 and 1537 but was destroyed by fire in 1552. A second, more solid wooden cathedral with a thatched roof was erected between 1563 and 1568. The impetus for the current, more substantial stone structure came from Governor Pedro Fernández de Busto and Bishop Dionisio de los Santos, who recognized the need for a dignified cathedral.

A public contest for the design was held in 1575, with Simón González's project being selected. Construction commenced in 1575, strategically located away from the port for security. The building faced challenges, including discussions about altering its orientation and the structural integrity of the stone. By 1585, the main volume of the building was covered, though neighboring structures and the tower were still missing.

The Drake Attack

In 1586, the cathedral suffered significant damage during an attack by the English privateer Francis Drake. Drake looted the city, and upon the inhabitants' refusal to pay a ransom, he threatened to demolish the cathedral. A warning shot from his cannons struck a column, causing it to fall and damaging two other supporting columns and part of the ceiling. The city eventually paid a ransom, and repair work began, though it was slow due to the economic hardship following the attack.

Architectural Features and Later Additions

The cathedral retains original elements from the colonial era, including its balconies, main portal, and cornices. In 1908, French architect Gaston Lelarge refurbished the tower and dome. Significant interior elements, such as the Carrara marble pulpit and the valuable procedural custody, as well as the marble pavement and the elegant arcades supporting the central nave, were added during the tenure of prelate Fray José Díaz de Lamadrid (1778-1792).

The Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria continues to serve as a vital religious and historical center in Cartagena, embodying centuries of faith, resilience, and architectural evolution.