Granada Cathedral lions feature sunglasses to mark restoration

Two stone lions on the facade of the Granada Cathedral have gained attention for wearing miniature sunglasses. This unusual detail is not a decorative whim or a game for visitors, but a deliberate choice made during the restoration of the cathedral tower.

The sunglasses serve as a visual marker to distinguish new replacement pieces from the original historical elements. This practice allows future generations to identify which parts of the monument were incorporated during current interventions, ensuring that the distinction between original and restored masonry remains clear.

While the method of marking interventions can be a subject of debate among heritage professionals, the use of these distinctive sunglasses provides an easily recognizable way to maintain the historical integrity of the building.