Spain has beautiful cathedrals in Seville, Toledo, Granada and Barcelona. So it is surprising the Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid did not have an equivalent cathedral until the end of the 20th century. The Gothic Revival design of Catedral de la Almundena was created by Francisco de Cubas in 1879. After extensive delays, the Santa Maria la Real de La Almudena was finished in 1993. Surrounding the 65 foot diameter dome are statues of the 12 apostles. It is dedicated to the Virgin of Almundena. This religious statue of the Virgin Mary was buried into a city wall in 714 for protection against an Arab attack. According to legend, after Madrid regained its independence in 1083, the icon was miraculous revealed during a procession led by King Alfonso VI of León and Castile on November 9, 1085. A 16th century replica of the patroness of Madrid is on display inside of the cathedral except during a procession on the November 9 feast day.
