Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Coro (Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus), San Sebastian

Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Coro (Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus), San Sebastian (must see)

The Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus is a Catholic parish church and a minor basilica located in the Old Town (Parte Vieja) of San Sebastian. It was constructed in 1774. The architectural style of the construction is Baroque, with a blend of Gothic and Neo-classical elements. It is a style peculiar to the area referred to as "Churrigueresque," lavishly ornamented late Spanish baroque style. The facade features two spires and faces the south side.

The central nave is a space of 157 feet by 108 feet. It divides into three smaller naves and four zones. Six free-standing columns and wall pillars act as buttresses to support the vaults. The 49-foot columns are octagonal. The central dome is 89 feet high. At the end of the central nave are smaller rooms used as chapels, a sacristy, and for storage.

The image of the Virgin of the Choir is a small dark wood carving. It presides over masses in the basilica from a six-foot-high pedestal in front of the main altar. When not presiding over holy mass, the Virgin of the Choir is in a niche in the center of the altarpiece. The exact origin of the Virgin image is unknown. Locals believe the Virgin of the Choir saved the basilica in the fire of 1813.

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Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Coro (Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus) on Map

Sight Name: Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Coro (Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus)
Sight Location: San Sebastian, Spain (See walking tours in San Sebastian)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in San Sebastian, Spain

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