Crucifix, Cathedral of Jaca, Spain, 2009 (photo)

Jaca Cathedral is considered one of the most important in the Pyrenees. The present building dates from the 11th Century (1040-76) and was the first Spanish cathedral to be built in the French Romanesque style. It has been changed over the years and given Plateresque decoration, but some original work can be seen in the capitals, that feature biblical scenes, the doorways, the square tower and the outer walls. Inside is the silver shrine of Orosia, the patron saint of Jaca who was martyred by the Moors and whose remains are beneath the high altar. Renaissance sculptures decorate the side chapels and apse. Frescoes by Francisco Bayeu (1792) decorate the choir and the dome of the central apse. The Jaca Cathedral cloister houses the Diocesan Museum.