Colegio de Calatrava (Calatrava College), Salamanca
The College of the Immaculate Conception of Calatrava stands as the only surviving collegiate building in the city established by one of Spain鈥檚 military orders, the Order of Calatrava. Founded in 1552 by decree of Emperor Charles V, it was quickly incorporated into the prestigious University of Salamanca by 1554. Yet, the grand edifice we admire today took shape much later, with its construction commencing in 1717 under architect Joaqu铆n de Churriguera, who guided the project until his passing in 1724.
Over the decades, the building's evolution reflected changing tastes and intentions. Work resumed in 1750 under Jer贸nimo Garc铆a de Qui帽ones, at a time when neoclassical aesthetics were in vogue. To align with contemporary style and under the influence of then-rector Francisco Ib谩帽ez de Corbera, much of the original Baroque ornamentation was removed, culminating in the church鈥檚 consecration in 1790. The building's facade, composed of two levels framed by giant pilasters and topped with a dignified balustrade, blends Renaissance inspiration with subtle, lingering Baroque details鈥攕een especially in the curved forms around the entrance and window moldings.
Inside, the building experienced dramatic loss during the Spanish War of Independence: several paintings by Francisco de Goya, including a prominent depiction of the Immaculate Conception in the chapel鈥檚 high altarpiece, vanished in the upheaval of conflict. Later, the building transitioned from its original academic and spiritual function to serve successive diocesan roles鈥攆irst as a minor seminary, then a major seminary鈥攂efore being largely underutilized due to declining vocations.
Today, the college has found new life as the House of the Church, the seat of the Diocese of Salamanca. Following a major renovation between 2000 and 2003, it now houses diocesan offices, a residence, library, auditorium, chapel, and meeting facilities鈥攂ecoming once more a center for community and ecclesiastical activity.
Over the decades, the building's evolution reflected changing tastes and intentions. Work resumed in 1750 under Jer贸nimo Garc铆a de Qui帽ones, at a time when neoclassical aesthetics were in vogue. To align with contemporary style and under the influence of then-rector Francisco Ib谩帽ez de Corbera, much of the original Baroque ornamentation was removed, culminating in the church鈥檚 consecration in 1790. The building's facade, composed of two levels framed by giant pilasters and topped with a dignified balustrade, blends Renaissance inspiration with subtle, lingering Baroque details鈥攕een especially in the curved forms around the entrance and window moldings.
Inside, the building experienced dramatic loss during the Spanish War of Independence: several paintings by Francisco de Goya, including a prominent depiction of the Immaculate Conception in the chapel鈥檚 high altarpiece, vanished in the upheaval of conflict. Later, the building transitioned from its original academic and spiritual function to serve successive diocesan roles鈥攆irst as a minor seminary, then a major seminary鈥攂efore being largely underutilized due to declining vocations.
Today, the college has found new life as the House of the Church, the seat of the Diocese of Salamanca. Following a major renovation between 2000 and 2003, it now houses diocesan offices, a residence, library, auditorium, chapel, and meeting facilities鈥攂ecoming once more a center for community and ecclesiastical activity.
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Colegio de Calatrava (Calatrava College) on Map
Sight Name: Colegio de Calatrava (Calatrava College)
Sight Location: Salamanca, Spain (See walking tours in Salamanca)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Salamanca, Spain (See walking tours in Salamanca)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Salamanca, Spain
Create Your Own Walk in Salamanca
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Salamanca Introduction Walking Tour
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Salamanca's splendor began with the royal charter of Alfonso IX... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Salamanca's splendor began with the royal charter of Alfonso IX... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Salamanca's Historical Buildings Walking Tour
Salamanca 鈥� one of Spain鈥檚 most delightful and intriguing destinations 鈥� is a treasure trove of architectural marvels. The abundance of well-preserved, centuries-old wonders of construction tucked away in the labyrinth of narrow lanes in this prestigious university city is truly awe-inspiring. A true feast for the eyes, they are so impressive that the entire historic center of Salamanca was... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles