The Cathedral Basilica of St. James, constructed between the 14th and 15th centuries, towers proudly over Bilbao. Preceding the city's 1300 official establishment, this architectural marvel is among the city's most ancient surviving buildings. Initially serving as the main parish church, it attained minor basilica status in 1819, and cathedral status in 1955. Despite the march of time, the cathedral maintains a captivating blend of Gothic and Gothic Revival architectural elements. However, what truly distinguishes this cathedral is the enigmatic carvings on the main vault's buttresses, portraying Bilbao's local merchants. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site furthers your understanding of the lives and trades of the city's past inhabitants, as these hidden gems cautiously reveal their secrets.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nik Frost
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