The Gothic cathedral in Toledo, Spain was built between 1226 and 1493, and it's so large that I could barely fit it into one photograph. The cathedral was built upon the site of the Great Mosque of Toledo which itself replaced a Visigoth church so needless to say this ground has been holy for quite some time. Because the church is so large it was difficult for Jill and I to really appreciate the architecture of the exterior but the interior was a bit easier to take in. In addition to the central nave with beautiful stained glass windows we enjoyed viewing objects in the treasury, art in the sacristy, and the impressive Capilla Mayor.
The highlight of the treasury is this 15th century gilded monstrance measuring 10 feet tall and weighing 500 pounds. The gold used on this piece was allegedly brought back to Spain by Columbus from the New World. The monstrance is used annually in Toledo's feast of Corpus Christi and most recently was brought out of the cathedral for a Eucharistic Adoration presided over by Pope Benedict XVI.
Finally, the Gothic alterpiece (Capilla Mayor) was absolutely stunning. It is made from gilded and painted larch wood with figures that are life-sized. At about five stories tall, it summarizes the New Testament culminating with Christ's crucifixion.
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