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The temple dominated the banks of the Ebro river and, therefore,
the entrances. During the 17 and 18 C it was modified until
it acquired its present appearance. The tower is made up
of five bodies of quadrangular section, and the bell cot
consists of two semicircular hollows below triangular pediments.
It was built in 1560 by the brothers Juan and Martín
de Landerrain. After their deaths, it was Martín
de Landerrain, Juan´s son who carried on with the
project until it was completed in 1573. Over the last years,
the tower has been restored to its former splendour.
The interior of the church introduced
some architectural innovations such as the large dimensions
of the High Altar. At one time it was one of the most daring
architectural works in Spain. Of interest is also the magnificent
equestrian group of the Apostle, which has become one of
the most representative symbols of Logroño.
The façade was built as a triumphal
arch, following the techniques imposed since the Renaissance
period. The semi-circular doorway is flanked by pairs of
Ionic columns of joint shafts that rest upon high pedestals.
The niche on the attic houses an image of Santiago sculptured
by Juan de Amezqueta. The Equestrian Santiago dominates
the sorrounding houses that are protected by a shelter.
The church also contains a mayor retable,
created over a former one. The Gothic sculpture of Santiago,
from the 14 C and a Crucifix from the 13 C are the key pieces
in the retable. In the 15 C it was covered with gold at
the expense of don Manuel de Samaniego y Jaca, Archbishop
of Burgos.
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