The present-day Cathedral of Orihuela was constructed in the 14th century. The crossing, the great chapel, and the ambulatory were constructed, or added, at the end of the 15th century and the beginning of the XVI. These elements are of great interest for the Valencian Gothic period. The vault of the crossing is an original and audacious construction, in which two pillars of the nave were removed in order to create a more ample space. In the design of the vault two crossing arches were suppressed, leaving the structural role to the transversal arches. This solution was to be picked up again in late Gothic constructions in Castile and Portugal. The role of Master Pere Compte in the design is documented, although it is not very probable that he finished the work. The great chapel makes use of a ribbed construction which can be related to the late Gothic school of the Bishop of Cartagena. The cathedral has important Renaissance additions, such as the choir stalls, the grills of the choir and the great chapel, and the North Door.

 

There are no problems in visiting, for the Church is still used for worship. To know a suitable time, it is a good idea to telephone in advance.