Toledo Cathedral

When we visited the Toledo Cathedral, the first thing that I noticed was the incredibly detailed sculptures that cover the exterior. I also noticed the tall pointed spires that make the cathedral look even taller as they reach up to the sky.  The inside of the cathedral was breathtaking. It is such a great example of Gothic architecture. The Annotated Mona Lisa talks about some of the characteristics of Gothic architecture being flying buttresses, ribbed vaults and pointed arches. The Toledo Cathedral has all of those. The interior has towering ceilings, many stone carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows. It felt very open and peaceful. The altar was stunning to look at with all the gold surrounding the images of the life of Christ. 

 

I think the Toledo Cathedral is important because it is such a good example of Gothic architecture. It stands as a symbol of the devotion to Catholicism of the people of Toledo. The Annotated Mona Lisa also talks about how the building of these Gothic cathedrals would bring the people together. Everyone in the town, no matter their social class, would come together to build these houses of worship. So the Toledo Cathedral also is important because it symbolizes the unity of the community there. The cathedral houses many pieces of art. This shows how much the community values art.

 

The Toledo Cathedral contributes to Toledo/Madrid’s status as a cultural capital because it is so prominent, right in the middle of the city. It is what draws tourists that come to Madrid to make a day trip to Toledo. Architectural enthusiasts are drawn to the city merely because the cathedral is such a standard in Gothic architecture. It also is an art gallery displaying many famous works of art which adds to the city being one of the great cultural capitals of the world.