Church of Santalla de Bóveda de Mera, Archaeological site in Santalla de Bóveda de Mera, Spain
The Church of Santalla de Bóveda de Mera is an archaeological site near Lugo featuring a rectangular temple with a central pool covered by a barrel vault. Two columns frame the entrance facade, and the interior displays the well-preserved structural elements of the original construction.
The structure was built in the 3rd century as a sanctuary dedicated to goddess Cybele and later converted into a Christian temple. The transformation demonstrates how religious practices shifted in the region during the early Christian period.
The underground crypt preserves ancient murals showing birds and plants, representing one of the largest collections of Hispanic Roman paintings from that era. Visitors can see these colorful images in the vaulted chamber, revealing how people once lived in this place.
The site is located around 14 km from Lugo city and is reached by paths leading to the entrance. Visits are available from Tuesday through Saturday, with guided tours available by telephone reservation.
The building incorporates one of the oldest horseshoe arch systems used as a structural element in Spanish architecture, dating from the 5th or 6th century. This construction feature was exceptionally rare in northern European regions at that time.
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