Romanesque portal of Ripoll Monastery

The limestone entrance features seven sculpted archivolts supported by columns, with statues of Saint Peter and Saint Paul displaying their symbolic attributes.

Built in the 12th century, the portico draws inspiration from Roman triumphal arches and incorporates biblical narratives from a manuscript preserved in the monastery.

The portal's sculptural program includes representations of the Old Testament, the Apocalypse, and the twenty-four elders surrounding a central Maiestas Domini.

The limestone structure measures twelve meters wide, seven meters high, and one meter thick, constructed without mortar, making it susceptible to weathering.

The portal combines Toulouse school influences with Catalan Romanesque style, creating an exceptional example of medieval sculptural decoration in Spain.

Location: Santa Maria de Ripoll

GPS coordinates: 42.20139,2.19056

Latest update: May 17, 2025 10:52