Built by townspeople the Iglesia de San Cristóbal stands as a testament to faith. It also shows community spirit. People set aside one day a week to construct it. This act speaks volumes about their devotion.
Let’s step back in time to understand the origins. The Iglesia de San Cristóbal arose from conflict. A confrontation with the Duke of El Infantado spurred its creation. The old church stood on a hill. It was across from Dead Beach where the cemetery is now.
Consider the architecture of Iglesia de San Cristóbal. It features a rectangular floor plan. This divides into three naves. A rectangular chancel completes the design. Above rises a striking tower. It has four sections and a prismatic shape. The tower’s completion occurred in the 18th century. That is when they added a balustrade and pyramidal pinnacle. Stone forms the basic construction with masonry buttresses.
Pause to admire the portals of Iglesia de San Cristóbal. The north doorway is framed by classical buttresses. It has a Romanesque arch between pilasters. A tympanum divides into two sections. Inside is a modern image of San Cristóbal. Jesús Otero a native of Santillana del Mar sculpted it.
Now shift your gaze to the opposite façade. Another doorway awaits you. It frames the village’s Coat of Arms. The Crown sits above. An inscription dates back to 1713.
Outside the Iglesia de San Cristóbal two shields catch the eye. The one on the right displays the Crown. It also shows the neck chain of the Order of Toisón. The shield includes the Coat of Arms of Castilla. A castle represents it. A rampant lion also appears. It symbolizes the Coat of Arms of León. Lilies are also visible. They depict the House of Bourbon and the Coat of Arms of Philip II. The second shield tells a story. It represents the liberation of Seville.
Inside the Iglesia de San Cristóbal awaits spiritual treasures. An image of Christ the Protector stands prominently. Local fishermen hold this figure dear. They pray to Him when troubled on the waters. A grand organ also resides within. It dates from the early 20th century. Martorell contributed to the church’s design. He designed the pulpit. He also designed the altar screen of the chancel. The choir and stained-glass windows also came from him.
Consider the path to Iglesia de San Cristóbal. Access comes through the old town. A paved floor guides your steps. The church’s main floor is accessible to all.
Today the Iglesia de San Cristóbal stands as a symbol. It represents faith artistic vision and community collaboration. It reminds us of the power of collective effort. It also shows the enduring strength of religious belief.