The Cathedral is built on a hill, in the place where the Abbey of San Emeterio and San Celedonio once stood and around which the city of Santander was born (then called Portus Victoriae liliobrigensium). In the lower part of the Cathedral is the Church of El Cristo, the oldest monument in the city. In fact, Roman remains of a hot spring resort were found in the subsoil thereof. This small church with three naves divided by thick pillars is characterized by its sober style, although there are some pieces of great value.The Cathedral is a temple whose solidity and sturdy tower give it a fortress appearance. Its construction began in the 13th century and it was declared Property of Cultural Interest in 1931, although it had to be rebuilt after the fire of 1941.