Promptly at 4:30, José Manuel picked me up. A very knowledgeable and garrulous man, he was not content to take me only to the monastery, but also took me to a huge pazo (estate) and several scenic lookout points. But for me, the prize was the monastery.
I had the church all to myself, and it was beyond what I had imagined. So many intersecting and overlapping arches, the high vaults— it gave almost a gothic-y feeling of soaring space (sorry, I really don’t know what I’m talking about, but that was the impression it gave me). No human figures on the capitals, but lots of very intricate plant designs. I was very happy that I had spent a lot of time outside yesterday, and today my focus was just on the beautiful interior.
I learned that Enrique Iglesias made a music video in this church, and it scandalized the church authorities. I watched it, and I have to say I am shocked. Since the monastery is owned by the government, the church had no input, but there was a lot of controversy
TravelerVery beautiful interior. It reminds me of medieval churches elsewhere (Corvey comes to mind). All stone interior (except for the renovated ceiling in one picture), no stained glass windows, small openings for natural light. It must be pretty cold inside. The absence of human figures on the capitols is striking. The bearded face on the side of a gate looks like a monster so I guess it does not count as human. No altar, no crucified Christ, renting the space to a pop star -- how sad.
Traveler
Oh my what a place. And look. No rain!!! May you have a perfect bluesky day today!
mary louise adamsFantastic!
Traveler
Very beautiful interior. It reminds me of medieval churches elsewhere (Corvey comes to mind). All stone interior (except for the renovated ceiling in one picture), no stained glass windows, small openings for natural light. It must be pretty cold inside. The absence of human figures on the capitols is striking. The bearded face on the side of a gate looks like a monster so I guess it does not count as human. No altar, no crucified Christ, renting the space to a pop star -- how sad.
Traveler
Love this 😊