The rehabilitation works at Malaga Cathedral, popularly known as La Manquita (The One-Armed Lady), have reached a crucial point with the commencement of the construction of the pediment or gable of its main facade. This triangular element, which will rise above Plaza del Obispo, will structurally close the upper part of the building, which had remained unfinished since the 18th century.
The project, which began in 2023 and is now past its halfway mark, involves significant technical complexity. According to the dean of Malaga Cathedral, José Ferrary, a special scaffolding system and a portable crane are being used to precisely place the stone pieces. This phase is fundamental, as the new roof of the temple will rest upon the pediment.
“"It is the most complicated and most technical work. It continues to grow respecting the times, history, and its original concept."
The completion of the main facade will include the execution of the classic triangular pediment, as conceived in the original design by Malaga architect Antonio Ramos. Additionally, the three oculus windows will be finalized, and a sculptural ensemble comprising eight apostles and an image of Christ, crowning the central pediment, will be added. These figures could exceed three meters in height.
The incorporation of this element, not initially planned, was a recommendation from the Junta de Andalucía to prevent the facade from remaining unfinished again. This modification, along with the change to fireproof materials for the beams, resulted in an additional cost of almost five million euros over the initial budget of 17.5 million.
“"All Malaga residents remember the image of an unfinished, incomplete gable. Work stopped there in the 18th century, and now the first ashlar stones are being laid for what will be the definitive culmination of that gable."
In parallel, progress is being made on the wooden structure for the new roof, which, once completed, will receive approximately 60,000 handcrafted ceramic tiles. These tiles, designed by a Catalan company that also worked on Barcelona's Sagrada Familia, will combine off-white and cognac tones with glazed cream and toasted finishes, aiming to maintain aesthetic unity with the monumental complex and visual dialogue with nearby buildings like the Episcopal Palace.
The main objective of the entire intervention is to protect the temple from humidity and water infiltration issues affecting various areas of the Cathedral, fully waterproofing the building and improving internal ventilation. Furthermore, a new accessible and exhibition space will be created within the roof area, allowing visitors to learn about the Cathedral's construction history and its evolution over centuries.
