Romanesque Sculpture Masterpieces: Spanish Cathedrals and Monasteries

Romanesque Sculpture Masterpieces in Spain

The Oldest Home of Santiago Cathedral

At the Puerta de las Platerías, the tympanum depicts scenes from the New Testament. These include the temptations of man, the image of the adulteress on the left, the flogging, and the crowning with thorns. On the spandrels of the arches are angels with trumpets and sculptures of Christ and Santiago. Several masters worked on this, including Maestro Esteban.

The Tympanum of the Cathedral of Jaca

This features Roman symbols: a circle inscribed with a Chi Rho, the Greek letters Alpha and Omega. Two lions flank the scene, representing Christ. Another animal figure leads a man holding a snake, symbolizing overcoming sin through God's grace.

Romanesque Sculpture: The Cover of the Monastery of Ripoll

This is a major work of the Catalan Romanesque school. The cover is a rectangle divided into horizontal bands. Sculpture covers the wall surface where the door opens, including the archivolts. It was built using juxtaposed and superimposed blocks with columns at the corners.

Thematic Structure at Ripoll

The theme relates to the glorification schemes of the Roman Empire. Along the frieze appears Christ, accompanied by characters who assisted in his mission, descending from heaven to hell. The upper zone represents the saved surrounded by angels and the elders of the Apocalypse. The third and fourth friezes depict the Old Testament. The next row features larger figures pointing to the lower register, which includes devouring beasts—symbols of the clash between good and evil—and medallions with the deadly sins. Plant elements, zodiac symbols, and representations of the months of the year are also present.

Portico of the Glory of the Cathedral of Santiago

The main tympanum features Christ accompanied by the Evangelists and their symbols. The bottom row shows angels bearing the symbols of the Passion. The jambs feature prophets and apostles.

The Cover of St. Vincent de Ávila

This relief shows the apostles conversing among themselves.

Second Reliefs of Silos

These reliefs display complex folds, emphasizing dialogue and communication.

Apostolate of the Camara Santa de Oviedo

Figures are matched by columns and are connected by a slight twist of the body and hand gestures.