Seville Cathedral commemorates the martyrdom of Saint John the Baptist

The Catholic Church commemorates the martyrdom of Saint John the Baptist on August 29. The event marks the historical and religious account of the prophet's execution by King Herod Antipas following his refusal to condone the king's marriage to Herodias's sister.

In Seville, the Cathedral commemorates this day by highlighting a significant Baroque masterpiece by Francisco de Zurbarán. Created around 1640, the painting depicts the Saint in a camel skin tunic, holding a cross and a shell, while gesturing toward the Lamb of God. The work, which was donated to the cathedral in the 18th century, uses a red mantle to symbolize the blood of his martyrdom.

Religious teachings surrounding the event emphasize the theme of speaking truth to power and maintaining moral integrity despite political or personal consequences.