Cathedral of Jandara
| Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of Virgin Mary | |
|---|---|
| Metropolitanae Sanctae Mariae Virginis Assumptionis | |
 Jandara Cathedral | |
| Location | Jandara |
| Country | Polarus |
| Denomination | Roman Catholic |
| History | |
| Status | Cathedral |
| Consecrated | 1358 |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Active |
| Groundbreaking | 866 |
| Completed | 872, but with subsequent additions until the twentieth century |
| Specifications | |
| Number of domes | 1 |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Jandara |
The Cathedral of Jandara is a medieval cathedral located in the city of Jandara, Polarus. It was originally built as a palace for the sultans of during the era of the the Sultanate, but was later converted into a cathedral by the Exponential crusaders after their conquest of the city. It is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. As an architectural complex, it is characterized by the presence of different styles, due to a long history of additions, alterations and restorations, the last of which occurred in the 20th century.
History
The original palace was built during the reign of Sultan Amr I in the 9th century as a symbol of the power and wealth of the Polaran Sultanate. It was expanded and renovated over the centuries, with each sultan adding their own touches to the building. The palace featured a large courtyard, ornate gardens, and a large central hall used for official ceremonies and audiences.
In 1358, the city of Jandara was conquered by the crusaders from the Empire of Exponent, and the palace was converted into a cathedral. The original features of the palace were largely preserved, but were repurposed to suit its new function. The central hall became the nave of the cathedral, with the addition of a high altar at the far end. The gardens were replaced by a cloister, and the courtyard was turned into a cemetery for the city's elite. The cathedral was dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
Following the independence of Polarus from the Empire of Exponent, there was significant pressure from many within Jandara and across the city to convert the cathedral into a mosque. This was met, however, with severe opposition from both the city's significant Catholic minority, as well as from outside groups. Ultimately, the decision was made to allow the cathedral to remain in place, albeit with a large plaque denoting the cathedral's former use as a palace placed outside the main entrance.
Today, the Cathedral of Jandara remains an important landmark in the city. It has undergone several restorations and renovations over the centuries, but has retained much of its medieval character. The cathedral is open to visitors and holds regular services, catering to the Catholic population within the city.
Architecture
The Cathedral of Jandara is an impressive example of Imperial Hesperidesian and Polaran architecture. It features towering arches, intricate stonework, and stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes. The cathedral's bell tower rises high above the city, providing a stunning view of the surrounding area.
One of the most notable features of the cathedral is the ornate altar, which is adorned with gold and jewels. It is said that the altar was created by skilled craftsmen brought over from Exponent specifically for this purpose.