Church of Santa María la Real, Olite, Gothic Catholic church in Olite, Spain.
Santa María la Real is a Gothic church distinguished by an ornate entrance portal with eight arches topped by a large rose window. The facade displays numerous sculptural elements that give it a richly decorated character.
Construction spanned the 13th to 14th centuries, with the church serving as a ceremonial site for Navarrese royalty. Its proximity to the Royal Palace made it a center for official religious events of the ruling family.
The interior contains religious artworks that shaped the city's spiritual life, including a Renaissance altarpiece and a 14th-century Gothic Christ sculpture. These pieces reflect how local artists expressed faith and devotion through their craft.
The church sits at Plaza Teobaldos 1 right next to the Royal Palace, making it convenient to visit both sites together. Visitors should note that regular visiting hours apply and the area is easily walkable.
The tympanum above the entrance displays intricate stone carvings showing scenes from Jesus's life, including the Annunciation, Birth, and Baptism in medieval style. These details are easy to miss, but closer inspection reveals the craftsmanship of the stonemasons who created the church.
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