Andalusia is home to some of the most magnificent cathedrals in Spain. In this article, we’ll compare the Cathedral of Málaga, affectionately known as La Manquita, with other iconic Andalusian cathedrals, such as those in Seville, Córdoba, and Granada.
If you’re planning a cultural tour across Andalusia, this guide will help you understand the key differences between these architectural gems—focusing on style, history, unique features, and why each is worth visiting.
Architectural Style and Key Features
Málaga Cathedral
- Primarily Renaissance with Baroque touches.
- Famous for its unfinished south tower, earning it the nickname La Manquita (“the little one-armed lady”).
- Bright and spacious interior with a grand choir and pipe organ.
Seville Cathedral
- One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world.
- Built over the city’s former mosque.
- Home to Christopher Columbus’s tomb and the iconic Giralda tower.
Córdoba Cathedral (Mosque-Cathedral)
- A stunning fusion of Islamic and Christian architecture.
- Retains its original mihrab and forest of Moorish arches.
- Unique in the world for its preserved mosque structure turned cathedral.
Granada Cathedral
- Renaissance with Gothic elements.
- Built after the Christian Reconquest.
Adjacent to the Royal Chapel, where the Catholic Monarchs are buried.
Comparison Table
| Cathedral | City | Main Style | Start year | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Málaga Cathedral | Málaga | Renaissance | 1528 | Unfinished tower (La Manquita) |
| Seville Cathedral | Seville | Gothic | 1401 | Giralda tower, Columbus’s tomb |
| Córdoba Cathedral | Córdoba | Islamic-Christian | 8th century (mosque), 13th (cathedral) | Horseshoe arches, mihrab |
| Granada Cathedral | Granada | Renaissance | 1523 | Royal Chapel, Baroque façade |
What Makes Málaga Cathedral Unique
The Cathedral of the Incarnation of Málaga is admired for its harmonious blend of Renaissance elegance and Baroque detail. However, what truly sets it apart is its unfinished south tower, which became a symbol of the city itself.
Inside, the cathedral is airy and filled with natural light—offering a different atmosphere than the darker, more solemn Gothic cathedrals. Curious about its nickname? Read more about why it’s called La Manquita.
Andalusia’s cathedrals are living testaments to its layered history and diverse cultural heritage. Each cathedral has a story to tell, from minarets turned bell towers to royal tombs and Renaissance chapels. The Cathedral of Málaga, with its unfinished tower and light-filled interior, may not be the largest—but it’s undeniably full of charm.
Want to explore it in depth? Book one of our private guided tours and experience the magic of Málaga from the inside out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the biggest cathedral in Andalusia?
Seville Cathedral—it's one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How is Málaga Cathedral different from Granada’s?
Both are Renaissance, but Málaga's is known for its unfinished tower and bright interior, while Granada’s is more monumental with a famous Royal Chapel.
Can I visit all these cathedrals in one trip?
Yes! With good planning, you can visit Málaga, Córdoba, Seville, and Granada in one itinerary—they’re all well-connected by train and car.
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