College of Our Lady of Antigua, Catholic educational complex in Monforte de Lemos, Spain.
The College of Our Lady of Antigua is a school building in Monforte de Lemos featuring Herreriano architecture with two cloisters and a monumental staircase in its east wing. The complex contains multiple rooms and galleries that reflect its original purpose and later cultural functions.
A cardinal established this institution in 1593 as a seminary for religious education. The building later evolved into a university with several academic disciplines.
The building houses a museum displaying works by El Greco and Andrea del Sarto, including a notable painting of Saint Francis of Assisi. These artworks allow visitors to experience Renaissance masterpieces within an authentic historical setting.
Visitors can explore the grounds through pre-booked guided tours, as the building is actively used as an educational facility. It is helpful to plan ahead and contact them in advance to arrange a visit.
The staircase in the east wing was built between 1594 and 1603 and stands out for its exceptional construction, where the steps were carved from single blocks of granite. This craftsmanship demonstrates the skill of Renaissance builders who worked with such massive stone elements with precision.
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