From the outside, the cathedral was built in the form of a fortress to keep it safe during the continuous wars suffered by the city. Its construction was begun after the conquest of Badajoz by King Alfonso IX in the 13th century. The building is topped by battlements and has a high square tower, with large windows at the second level. It has three entrance doors; the main one is that of San Juan Bautista, topped by the image of the saint. Inside, it has a basilica ground plan with three naves in five sections, transept and sanctuary with three apses. Roof with Decadent Gothic arches.