Saint Paul Church: The Building.

The Church of San Pablo is built using ashlar masonry arranged in stretcher and header bond, sometimes even with several headers. The naves are considerably elongated compared to other churches built during this period, with the central nave being wider and taller than the lateral ones. The three naves are connected by four large arches, with the first two sections following a different layout from the following two. The first two sections exhibit the typical design of Cordoban Fernandine Churches, that is, arches supported by cruciform pillars with attached columns and pilasters. In contrast, the arches of the next two sections are supported by large rectangular pillars with columns attached to their shorter sides. Above these arcades runs a second row of blind semicircular arches, supported in the last two sections by small smooth-shafted columns attached to the wall. These two arcades serve to counteract the thrusts caused by the wooden gabled roof with collar beams that covers the central nave, built in the year 1536.

Apse and Head

The head of the Church of San Pablo consists of three apses, the central one being polygonal and appearing the same way on the outside, reinforced with up to four buttresses to support its thrusts. The lateral apses are straight on the outside and semicircular on the inside, a layout also found in the Church of San Pedro and considered the oldest type in the city. All three spaces are covered with Gothic rib vaults on corbels and prominent keystones, in addition to the quarter-sphere vaults enclosing the lateral sections.

Unique Elements

One of the most interesting features of this temple is the abundance of distinctive elements, such as Roman Attic-style bases shaped like shells with claws, columns and capitals of diverse origins in the central apse, and the aforementioned rectangular pillars of the central nave.

Church Portals

Gospel Side Portal

The gospel side portal is located at the foot of the church. This is because, in 1409, Doña Leonor López de Córdoba ordered the construction of her chapel where the original entrance stood, prompting its relocation to the current position. The portal follows the usual pattern in Córdoba, consisting of a recessed semicircular arch with molded archivolts, but it features one unique aspect: the eaves are made of wood instead of stone.

Main Portal

The main portal of the Church of San Pablo was designed by the architect Juan de Ochoa, a prominent figure in 16th-century Córdoba. With simple lines, Ochoa left us a beautiful example of the prevailing taste of the time, influenced by Italy. The first section is divided into three parts; in the center is the access opening, a semicircular arch with a decorated keystone, all framed by simple rustication. On either side rise two pilasters with Ionic capitals, between which are two blind openings—one with a lintel and the other a semicircular niche. Above the pilasters are a smooth frieze and a split triangular pediment, leading to a rectangular space decorated with moldings. The second section features a central niche housing a statue of “Saint Dominic“, flanked by a type of recessed pilasters that support the triangular pediment crowning the portal. Above this is a large modern rose window. The whole structure is flanked by buttresses from the building’s initial phase.

Access to the Courtyard

The portal providing access to the courtyard was built in the early 18th century by Andrés del Pino Ascanio and Bartolomé de Rojas. Two Solomonic columns with Corinthian capitals rise from high plinths and flank the semicircular opening that serves as the entrance. A statue of “Saint Paul” in a niche presides over the ensemble.

Cultural Visit

If you are wondering what to visit in Córdoba, a great option would be the Fernandine Churches, choosing one of our guided tours. This way, you can learn everything about the Church of San Pablo. Choosing quality tourism means choosing ArtenCórdoba.

Text: J.A.S.C.