This majestic cathedral is a catholic temple and one of the two buildings that compose the cathedral of Plasencia.

The old cathedral of Plasencia is a fascinating example of architectural transition from Romanesque to Gothic. The shafts and capitals of the columns belong to the Romanesque style, while the arches and windows, later and discovered during one of the last restorations, exhibit the Gothic character. Since the 18th century, its three naves had been hidden under a thick layer of whitewash, but its disappearance has made it possible to appreciate the elegance of a temple that is both solemn and welcoming.

The main doorway is an outstanding example of the Romanesque style, with semicircular arches and classical archivolts. In a simple niche, we find a stone sculpture of the Annunciation of Our Lady. This same image appears in the splendid rose window, accompanied by a praying angel. The doorway is full of symbolism and surprises, such as a magnificent triskel carved in one of the voussoirs of the great segmental arch, supported by a pair of atlantes. In addition, in the scene of the Annunciation/Incarnation, a dragon half-hidden on the right wing of the archangel Gabriel refers us to one of the most widespread theological teachings of the Middle Ages: the doctrine of the Atonement.

The cloister, with its irregular floor plan, reflects the transition from Romanesque to Gothic that characterizes the old Cathedral. The columns and capitals are reminiscent of the Romanesque with biblical scenes, while the arches and ribbed vaults reveal Gothic influences. The west and south naves show a clear Cistercian style. In the center of the courtyard is a 15th century Gothic fountain, decorated with coats of arms of the bishop and cardinal Juan de Carvajal. Today, this space acts as a meeting point and union between the two cathedrals, and on its pavement lie the tombs of illustrious canons.

If there is one part of the Romanesque building that deserves to be highlighted, it is undoubtedly the old Chapter House or Chapel of San Pablo, which is popularly known as the Melon Tower because of the fluted ball that crowns its dome. This room, with a square floor plan that becomes an octagon through ribbed trumpets, has a sixteen ribbed vault. On the exterior, the double-capped dome has a steep, conical design, protected by scale-shaped laves that prevent erosion by rainwater. At the apex, a fluted ball gives this structure its popular nickname of Melon Tower."