Construction began with volcanic stone in 1497 and it opened for worship almost a century later, although since then there have been continuous extensions and renovations. It's located in the historic part of Vegueta, one of the original districts in the capital of the island. Owing to five centuries of building work, there are several styles of architecture, from Gothic inside to neoclassical outside. However, its wealth of statues is its main attraction. One of the most important is El Portapaz (the Peace Bearer), by the famous sculptor Benvenuto Cellini. The statues on the altars, by Luján Pérez, a Canary Islander, do justice to the building. The cathedral houses the Museo Diocesano de Art Sacro (Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art)and admission is free. Mass: 8:30a & 9:30a M-F, 7p Sa, 9:30a, noon, 1p & 7p Su and holidays