Old portal of San Bartolomé de Olaso, Gothic cemetery portal in Elgoibar, Spain.
The portal is a Gothic stone structure featuring a double doorway divided by a central column, with apostle statues positioned on either side. Twenty religious figures are carved into and above the arches, creating a detailed facade typical of religious architecture from that period.
Built in 1459 by Martín Sancho, the portal is the only surviving element from the original San Bartolomé de Olaso parish church. The church structure vanished over centuries, leaving this entrance as the sole remaining record of the building that once stood there.
The carved figures decorating the portal represent saints, virgins, and angels arranged above the openings, showing what people valued and honored in their community. These religious images still convey the spiritual importance this place held for local residents over time.
The portal functions as the main entrance to Olaso Cemetery and is easily accessible within the town. You can view the carved details and stone work without restrictions, making it straightforward to study the facade at your own pace.
The arches feature subtle geometric patterns carved directly into the stone, indicating the builder was a skilled craftsperson. These fine details in the stonework show a level of precision that elevates it beyond typical cemetery entrances of its era.
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