The Door of the Apostles

It’s a testament to the awesomeness of the Valencian Cathedral that the Door of the Apostles is only its 2nd coolest entrance. Let’s take a little tour.

This door was originally the main entrance to the Moorish mosque, but in the 15th Century was redone in Gothic style, at which point it was adorned with its namesake apostles. All 12 are present and accounted for, though some are missing limbs or a head. They’re exquisitely detailed and six sit on each side of the door.

The tympanum above the door depicts Mary with baby Jesus in her arms, surrounded by angels. And above that is a rose window and stained glass which dates from 1354.

The Door of the Apostles is probably best known as the setting for the weekly Tribunal de las Aguas — the water court which has been held at noon on Thursday for centuries. Read more about that here.

[Secret Tip!] On the southern side of the door, don’t miss an ancient sundial carved into the rock. Whether it still tells the correct time?

- Luxury Hostel New York City

Tags: apostles, cathedral, tribunal de las aguas