El Salvador Chapel, Ubeda
Andres de Vandelvira crafted the Holy Chapel of El Salvador, a Renaissance marvel that stands as a testament to his artistic prowess. This architectural gem, residing in Ubeda, reigns as the town's most iconic edifice, showcasing the pinnacle of Spanish Renaissance design and standing as a crowning achievement of private religious architecture from that era.
Commissioned by Francisco de los Cobos, Emperor Carlos V's secretary, the chapel's genesis was spurred by its intended use as a sepulcher. In 1536, construction commenced under the watchful eye of Diego de Siloe, only to be later guided by the skilled hands of Andres de Vandelvira in 1540.
The façade, a masterpiece sculpted by Esteban Jamete from France, boasts an opulent splendor that rivals the finest examples of Spanish Renaissance artistry. Its opulent detailing includes the heraldic emblems of Francisco de los Cobos, as well as those of his wife, Doña Maria de Mendoza, hailing from the esteemed Manrique lineage. These emblems, upheld by warriors and women, are framed within a triumphal arch-like structure adorned with Christian and pagan motifs drawn from both the Old and New Testaments.
Divided into two tiers, the front elevation is graced by twin round towers flanking the central entrance, culminating in a triangular pinnacle. The first tier features a grand entrance with a semicircular arch, adorned with virtues that hold a plaque aloft. Fluted columns grace either side of this entrance, exuding a sense of grandeur. In the second tier, a tableau depicting the Transfiguration of Christ resides between sculptures of Saint Peter and Saint Andrew within ornate niches. Above, three windows offer a luminous touch.
And to the north, a complementary façade envisioned by Andres de Vandelvira further enriches the ensemble.
Commissioned by Francisco de los Cobos, Emperor Carlos V's secretary, the chapel's genesis was spurred by its intended use as a sepulcher. In 1536, construction commenced under the watchful eye of Diego de Siloe, only to be later guided by the skilled hands of Andres de Vandelvira in 1540.
The façade, a masterpiece sculpted by Esteban Jamete from France, boasts an opulent splendor that rivals the finest examples of Spanish Renaissance artistry. Its opulent detailing includes the heraldic emblems of Francisco de los Cobos, as well as those of his wife, Doña Maria de Mendoza, hailing from the esteemed Manrique lineage. These emblems, upheld by warriors and women, are framed within a triumphal arch-like structure adorned with Christian and pagan motifs drawn from both the Old and New Testaments.
Divided into two tiers, the front elevation is graced by twin round towers flanking the central entrance, culminating in a triangular pinnacle. The first tier features a grand entrance with a semicircular arch, adorned with virtues that hold a plaque aloft. Fluted columns grace either side of this entrance, exuding a sense of grandeur. In the second tier, a tableau depicting the Transfiguration of Christ resides between sculptures of Saint Peter and Saint Andrew within ornate niches. Above, three windows offer a luminous touch.
And to the north, a complementary façade envisioned by Andres de Vandelvira further enriches the ensemble.
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The dome of the church is very impressive with its paintings. The altarpiece is called the Christ of the Transfiguration of Mount Tabor and is the work by Berruguete. The altar is impressive because it is all in gold leaf. What calls one’s attention is the large number of sculptures and paintings of angels, of all sizes.
There is a beautiful sacristy done by Vandelvira and Esteban Jamete, with beautiful sculptures and a very decorative ceiling. The sculptures include caryatides, atlantes, angels, and medallions with allegories. In the church is a beautiful copy of El Greco’s painting Holy Family and St. Anne, done in ceramic tile. Today the chapel is private property. Admission charges at present go up to Euros 5.
There is a beautiful sacristy done by Vandelvira and Esteban Jamete, with beautiful sculptures and a very decorative ceiling. The sculptures include caryatides, atlantes, angels, and medallions with allegories. In the church is a beautiful copy of El Greco’s painting Holy Family and St. Anne, done in ceramic tile. Today the chapel is private property. Admission charges at present go up to Euros 5.
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