Influence of light on Granada Cathedral

The Cathedral of Granada is one of the most outstanding sites in the city, standing as a representative work of art of the Renaissance in whose construction every detail was taken into account. For this reason, you should discover the influence of light in the Cathedral of Granada.

Would you like to know what is the play of light and colours that can be seen in the Cathedral of the city of Granada? Stay and read this post, we show you everything you need to know below!

Symbology of light

To understand the importance and attention given to light in the Cathedral of Granada, we must first understand the symbolism of this element in religion.

Thus, in the Bible we can see how light is related to life, truth, strength, fullness, love, purity and the way of Jesus, establishing itself as a sign of divine revelation.

As a consequence, in the architecture of Granada Cathedral, the possibility of highlighting spaces and modelling objects through light was taken into account, creating an aesthetic and functional use of luminosity to transmit a sensation of peace and harmony.

Predominance of light and whiteness

Throughout the Cathedral we can enjoy a natural white light coming from its high windows. Thus, the whole temple is enveloped in a light that reaches the pavement, illuminating its naves and affecting its pilasters.

Siloé's aim was to achieve great whiteness in the interior of Granada Cathedral for hygienic, aesthetic and symbolic reasons, given that the materials used during construction and its interior whitewashing benefited the cleanliness of the building and gave it a sculptural and majestic appearance.

Likewise, in the Renaissance period it was considered that the interior of churches should be predominantly white, as it represented purity and the spirit of divine things.

Contrast of colours

Along with the predominance of white light, we also find contrasts of colour in Granada Cathedral through different elements. For this reason, we should highlight the golden and polychrome tones of the main chapel and the organs, or the intense blue pigment of its vault full of stars traced in gold.

In addition, thanks to the stained glass windows in the main chapel and ambulatory, the Cathedral's characteristic natural light is transformed chromatically, creating complementary coloured atmospheres.

Why visit the Cathedral of Granada?

As you can see throughout this article on the influence of light in the Cathedral of Granada, this element plays a key role in the spectacular nature of its interior, establishing a portentous, moving and admirable atmosphere.

If you would like more information about the Cathedral of Granada, do not hesitate to buy your tickets on the official website of the Archdiocese of Granada. 

Discover the beauty of this monument and be amazed by its history!