The Hidden Legacy of the Gima Darax Mosque Beneath the Church of Saint James

The Church of Saint James, responsible for the Real Federación de Hermandades y Cofradías de la Ciudad de Granada, stands in the heart of Spain’s Granada today. Its origins, however, lie in 1501 when it was built over an existing mosque named Gima Darax. The construction of the church, led by Rodrigo Hernández, began in 1525, but its original design proved too small. The project was expanded until 1543 to accommodate the growing church.

In 1553, Cristóbal Barreda took over and further expanded the chapel, with construction continuing until 1584. Many notable events have taken place within the church’s walls, including the baptism of renowned sculptor Pedro de Mena y Medrano on August 20, 1628. The church also housed the seat of the Spanish Inquisition in Granada until 1830, leading to the celebration of autos de fe. The church suffered serious damage during an earthquake in 1884 and underwent several modifications, including the demolition of the Inquisition houses, as a result of the construction of the Gran Via de Granada.

The church’s notable portal, significant woodcarvings, and the Mudéjar-style cowl of the main chapel are some of its most notable features. The church is currently considered a Bien de Interés Cultural.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons