Church of Santa María la Mayor, San Vicente de la Sonsierra, Late Gothic church in San Vicente de la Sonsierra, Spain
The Church of Santa María la Mayor is a late Gothic building with a single nave divided into four sections. Shallow chapels between buttresses and a seven-sided altar area define its interior layout, all contained within fortress walls.
Construction started in the late 15th century within the castle courtyard after the kingdoms of Navarre and Castile were joined. This union made possible the building of a church at this fortified location.
The main altar displays religious scenes that tell biblical stories through its Renaissance artwork, showing moments like the Nativity and Resurrection. These images were created to help visitors understand important Christian narratives as they entered the church.
Visiting the church requires advance arrangement with the parish priest before entering. It is best to contact ahead since the building is not always open to casual visitors.
The baptismal font dates from the 13th century and features ten trefoil arches carved with monks, clerics, and warriors. These detailed carvings show the skilled craftsmanship of artisans from centuries ago.
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