Christ of the Battles. New Cathedral of Salamanca
In the heart of the New Cathedral of Salamanca, between walls that have witnessed the history and faith of the city, the altarpiece of the Christ of the Battles stands majestically. This work is not just a decorative element; it is a living page of history and spirituality, a mirror of the Baroque soul that defines both the art and architecture of its time.
The altarpiece of the Christ of the Battles is a jewel of the Baroque, that artistic style that flourished in Europe from the late 16th to the 18th century. The Baroque, with its exuberance and grandiloquence, sought not only to impress but also to emotionally involve the spectator. In this context, the Salamancan altarpiece presents itself not as a mere accessory, but as a dramatic protagonist of the sacred and artistic narrative of the temple.
This magnificent altarpiece is the custodian of a rich and deep history. According to tradition, the Christ of the Battles would have been a silent and protective witness during the struggles that confronted Christian troops against Muslims in the conquest of Valencia by El Cid. Its presence on the battlefield would have been seen as an omen of victory and divine protection, and today, its image continues to evoke a feeling of solemnity and respect.
The Christ of the Battles, an image venerated in Salamanca with special relevance from the 17th century, was brought from Valencia by Don Jerónimo, chaplain of Don Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, and later bishop of Salamanca after the restoration of the diocese at the beginning of the 12th century. This 11th-century sculpture, the most ancestral of the diocese, is a majestic representation of Christ showing the wounds and blood of the crucifixion, of majestic solemnity.
a Baroque altar created by Alberto de Churriguera stands in the upper part, featuring another replica of the Christ of the Battles (made and blessed for worship after the last intervention on the original). The image of the Christ of the Battles shares iconographic links with other representations of the crucified Christ of the time, such as the Christ of Carrizo and that of Don Fernando and Doña Sancha, depicted with four nails and separated feet, according to the tradition of its time.
This place where iconographic rigidity and artistic richness intersect becomes an enclave of sculptural fervor. Beyond simply presenting a contrast, this space embraces Christ with delicacy, providing an atmosphere of theophanic projection.
Observing this altarpiece, the visitor is transported to an era where art was not only admired but lived. Each element, from the historiated columns that frame the central image to the cherubs that show the instruments of the passion, is a testimony to the Baroque.
The altarpiece of the Christ of the Battles is a call to contemplation and wonder. For those who approach this temple, it offers not only a testimony of faith and history but an invitation to lose oneself in the beauty and grandeur of Baroque art. In each visit, spectators not only see an image; they participate in an experience that transcends time and space, a spectacle of art and spirituality that continues to inspire and elevate souls.
HOURS
Monday to Saturday: 10 am - 8 pm | Sunday: 10 am- 6 pm
ACCESS
Admission fee required
LOCATION
Access via New Cathedral: Plaza de Anaya s/n
PLAN DE SOSTENIBILIDAD TURÍSTICA DE SALAMANCA
