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Spain
The Cathedral of Don Justo
Where is it?
The Cathedral of Don Justo (also known as Don Justo’s Cathedral) is located in the small town of Mejorada del Campo, which is situated in the Community of Madrid, Spain. The town is about 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of Madrid, making it accessible from the capital by car or public transportation. The cathedral itself is nestled in the countryside, surrounded by a serene landscape of rural Spain.
What is it?
The Cathedral of Don Justo is an unfinished, hand-built cathedral created by an amateur architect named Justo Gallego Martínez. Justo began constructing the cathedral in 1961 on a plot of land he had purchased, using recycled materials and his own design. What makes this cathedral unique is the fact that it was entirely built by Don Justo himself, with little to no professional help, over the span of several decades. It is considered an "outsider art" project and stands as a testament to his vision, passion, and dedication.
Key features of Don Justo’s Cathedral include:
Impressive Architecture: Though unfinished, the cathedral has a grand design inspired by traditional Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance styles. It includes monumental arches, towering spires, and a large dome. The cathedral's design was largely self-taught, and the structure has become an intriguing mix of architectural styles, blending influences from different historical periods.
Unique Construction Methods: Justo Gallego used a variety of materials, including bricks, concrete, and steel, many of which were salvaged from construction sites or donated by friends and supporters. The building process involved many challenges, and Don Justo worked without formal blueprints, relying instead on his instincts and vision. As a result, the cathedral has an eclectic appearance, with various architectural elements added over time.
Personal Story: Don Justo began the project after a severe illness in his youth, when he was advised to dedicate his life to a religious endeavor. He chose to build the cathedral as a spiritual offering, and despite the lack of formal construction training, he poured his life’s work into this personal project. He continued to work on the cathedral until his death in 2021. Since then, the cathedral has remained a symbol of perseverance, devotion, and individual creativity.
Unfinished State: One of the defining features of the Cathedral of Don Justo is that it is still unfinished. Over the years, it has remained a work in progress, with different sections of the building still under construction. The lack of professional resources and funding has meant that certain areas of the cathedral are incomplete, but it remains open to the public as a visitor attraction.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Fall (March to May, September to November): The best time to visit the Cathedral of Don Justo is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. The temperatures are ideal for exploring the area, and you can enjoy walking around the cathedral grounds without the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter.
Summer (June to August): Summer in Madrid can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). If you plan to visit during the summer months, it’s a good idea to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat.
Winter (December to February): Winter is the least popular time to visit due to cooler temperatures. However, if you don’t mind the cold, you can enjoy fewer crowds and a quieter experience.
Tips for the Trip
Guided Tours: Although you can visit the Cathedral of Don Justo on your own, guided tours are available, providing deeper insight into the story behind the cathedral, the construction process, and Don Justo’s life. A guide can also explain the various architectural elements and their significance.
Respect the Site: The cathedral is a deeply personal project for many people, and it is important to be respectful during your visit. Be mindful of the unfinished state of the building and the surrounding grounds, as it is still a work in progress.
Bring Cash: While visiting the cathedral is usually free, it’s a good idea to bring cash if you wish to make a small donation to help with the ongoing construction or to purchase souvenirs that help support the cathedral’s maintenance.
Photography: The Cathedral of Don Justo is an excellent spot for photography, especially for those interested in capturing unique and unconventional architecture. Make sure to take photos of both the detailed, intricate elements of the building and the grander, more panoramic views of the structure.
Museo Atlántico
Photo by Jennifer Roording https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jason_deCaires_Taylor_Crossing_the_Rubicon_Museo_Atl%C3%A1ntico_Spain.jpg
Where is it?
Museo Atlántico is located in the Canary Islands, Spain, specifically on the island of Lanzarote. The museum is situated in the Playa Blanca area, on the southern tip of the island, which is known for its beautiful beaches and volcanic landscapes. Lanzarote is part of the Lanzarote Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-protected area, and is famous for its unique volcanic scenery and mild climate.
What is it?
The Museo Atlántico is a unique underwater museum located off the coast of Lanzarote, created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor. Opened in 2016, it is Europe’s first underwater museum, and the largest of its kind in the world. The museum is situated in the Atlantic Ocean, with sculptures placed on the seabed at a depth of around 12 meters (39 feet).
Key features of the Museo Atlántico include:
Underwater Sculptures: The museum consists of a series of contemporary sculptures that are placed on the ocean floor. These sculptures are made from pH-neutral materials, allowing them to integrate into the marine environment and become artificial reefs. The underwater art installations are not only an artistic endeavor but also contribute to the conservation of marine life by creating habitats for fish and other sea creatures.
Collection of Artworks: The museum features a collection of over 300 life-sized sculptures, created by Jason deCaires Taylor. These sculptures depict human figures in various forms, from individual portraits to larger-scale scenes of people interacting with their environment. The works often explore themes such as human interaction with nature, environmental awareness, and societal issues.
Marine Life Interaction: As the sculptures are submerged in the ocean, they have been gradually colonized by marine life, including fish, algae, and coral. Over time, this interaction between art and nature creates a constantly changing environment where the museum evolves and transforms. The integration of living organisms into the sculptures adds a dynamic and organic aspect to the artwork, making it a living museum.
Artificial Reef and Environmental Impact: One of the key purposes of the Museo Atlántico is to promote marine conservation. By placing sculptures on the seabed, the museum helps to create artificial reefs that offer shelter and breeding grounds for marine life, contributing to the restoration of local ecosystems. The museum is part of Lanzarote’s efforts to balance tourism with environmental preservation.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Fall (March to May, September to November): The best time to visit the Museo Atlántico is during the spring or fall months when the weather is mild, and the visibility underwater is typically better. The ocean conditions are calmer, making for a more enjoyable diving or snorkeling experience.
Summer (June to August): Summer is also a good time to visit Lanzarote, with warm temperatures and clear waters. However, it can be more crowded with tourists, so it may be a busier time to explore the island and the museum.
Winter (December to February): While winter temperatures are generally mild in Lanzarote, the seas can sometimes be rougher, making diving conditions less ideal. However, winter offers fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, which can make for a more peaceful experience.
Tips for the Trip
Dive or Snorkel: To experience the Museo Atlántico fully, you’ll need to either dive or snorkel. If you're a certified diver, you can book a dive trip with a local operator to explore the sculptures up close. For those without diving experience, there are also snorkeling tours available, which allow visitors to float on the surface and observe the sculptures from above. Dive tours typically last around 40-45 minutes.
Book in Advance: Since the museum is an exclusive experience, it’s recommended to book your diving or snorkeling tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. These tours often require reservations, and availability may be limited.
Wear Comfortable Gear: If you’re diving or snorkeling, make sure to bring or rent appropriate gear, such as a mask, fins, and wetsuit. Many diving operators provide all necessary equipment, but it's important to confirm this when booking the tour.
Environmental Respect: The Museo Atlántico is a protected site, and it’s essential to follow all environmental guidelines during your visit. Avoid touching the sculptures or disturbing marine life, and always respect local regulations to help preserve the ecosystem.