• Jolene UnlandSecond Cities and Third SpacesTraveler
    The Guarrazar HoardRomanesque Arch, early 12th century, LeónBaptismal font, 12th century, BurgosThe Pillar of Lust (12th century) is a Romanesque capital from Silos, carved with erotic figuresThe Pillar of Lust (12th century) is a Romanesque capital from Silos, carved with erotic figures.The Pillar of Lust (12th century) is a Romanesque capital from Silos, carved with erotic figures.The Pillar of Lust (12th century) is a Romanesque capital from Silos, carved with erotic figures.Wolf biting fruit, 11th centuryPreparing mortar, carrying materials, working stone. 11th century, Mave.Knight slaying lion, 11th century

    MAN (Visigoth and Medieval)

    April 21 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C

    The Visigothic treasure hoards, particularly those featuring jewelry, are among the most spectacular artifacts from the Visigothic period (5th–8th centuries AD) in Spain.

    The most famous of these is the Treasure of Guarrazar, discovered in the 19th century near Toledo. This hoard includes exquisite gold votive crowns and crosses, adorned with precious stones and intricate filigree, likely used in religious ceremonies or as royal gifts. The crowns are especially notable for their hanging letters that spell out the names of Visigothic kings and bishops, reflecting the fusion of Germanic craftsmanship and Christian symbolism.

    Another significant find is the Torredonjimeno Treasure, which includes gold and gemstone jewelry such as earrings, buckles, and brooches, showcasing the high level of Visigothic metalwork.

    Madrid’s National Archaeological Museum (MAN) houses a remarkable collection of Visigothic and Romanesque capitals, which are among the most important in Spain.

    Visigothic Capitals:
    Capitals from San Pedro de la Nave (Zamora): These are among the finest examples of Visigothic sculpture in Spain, featuring intricate carvings with geometric and vegetal motifs, as well as figures of animals and birds. The church of San Pedro de la Nave itself is a masterpiece of Visigothic architecture, and some of its original capitals are now preserved in the museum.

    Capitals from the Monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos (Burgos): While the monastery itself is Romanesque, some of the earlier Visigothic influences can be seen in the transition of styles.

    Romanesque Capitals:
    Capitals from the Cloister of Silos. The museum displays several Romanesque capitals from the famous cloister of Santo Domingo de Silos, known for their detailed biblical scenes, fantastical creatures, and intricate foliage. These capitals are celebrated for their narrative quality and craftsmanship.

    Capitals from the Monastery of San Juan de Duero (Soria): These capitals are renowned for their expressive carvings, often depicting scenes from the Bible or mythological creatures, and are key examples of the Romanesque style in Castile.    Read more