Marbella Cathedral

The Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation in Marbella, Spain, dates from the 16th century. The location is thought to be where a mosque once stood. When the Christians reconquered the city, due to the lack of churches the old mosque was converted to a church. In the 16th century a new building was begun on the site, completed in 1767.

Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Encarnacion

The plan follows the conventional basilica layout with a central nave and two aisles. The high altar is an amazing sight to see. It shines with golden decorations and has the patron of Marbella, Saint Barnabas, at the top.

Main altar

Side view of main altar

Many side altars grace the interior of the building, honoring Our Lady as she is with child, the carrying of the cross, the crucifixion, the resurrection, and Mary ascending into Heaven.

Our Lady with Child

Jesus Carries His Cross

Crucifixion

Resurrection

Our Lady Assumed into Heaven

J was especially impressed with the holy water. Massive shell sculptures hold the water by the entrances of the church. What's unusual is the device up above, that will dispense water when someone holds their hands underneath it. Yes, just like a "hands free" sink! I wonder what kind of approval they had to get for that.

Holy water basin with dispenser!

They have a glorious organ in the choir loft which unfortunately was not used during the Mass we attended.

Organ Loft

Outside is the Plaza de Iglesia, which has a statue of Saint Barnabas and the ubiquitous orange trees. And another fountain!

The plaza

St. Barnabas, Patron of Marbella

All are welcome!

The church also had a large nativity scene covering everything from the Annunciation to the flight into Egypt, but that will be in the next post.