Basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo facts for kids
The Basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo is a very old church located in the town of Foz, which is in the region of Galicia (Spain). Many people believe it is the oldest cathedral in all of Spain. A long time ago, in the 800s, it was an important place where two bishops had their main offices.
The church you see today was built later, around the late 1000s. It shows off a style of building called Romanesque architecture, which was popular back then. Later, in the 1700s, extra supports called buttresses were added to make the building even stronger.
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Discovering San Martiño de Mondoñedo
The Basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo is a special historical building. It stands as a reminder of how churches were built many centuries ago. Its long history makes it a fascinating place to visit and learn about.
What Makes it a Basilica?
A basilica is a church that has been given a special title by the Pope. This title is usually given to churches that are very old, important, or have a unique history. San Martiño de Mondoñedo earned this title because of its age and its role as a former cathedral.
Why is it Called the Oldest Cathedral?
Even though it's not a cathedral today, it was once the main church for a bishop. This means it served as a cathedral for a long time, starting in the 9th century. This makes it one of the very first places in Spain to hold such an important religious role.
The Role of Bishops in History
In the past, a bishop was a very important leader in the Christian church. They were in charge of a large area called a diocese, overseeing many churches and priests. Having a bishop's seat in San Martiño de Mondoñedo shows how significant this church was centuries ago.
Architecture of the Basilica
The current building is a great example of Romanesque architecture. This style is known for its strong, thick walls, round arches, and often simple but powerful designs.
Key Features of Romanesque Design
- Thick Walls: Romanesque buildings often have very thick walls to support the heavy stone roofs.
- Round Arches: You'll see many round arches over windows and doorways.
- Small Windows: Windows are usually small, which helped keep the building cool in summer and warm in winter, and also made the walls stronger.
- Buttresses: These are strong supports built against the outside walls. They help to hold up the building and prevent the walls from pushing outwards. The ones added in the 18th century made the basilica even more stable.
Location and Importance
The basilica is located in Foz, a town in the beautiful region of Galicia (Spain). Galicia is known for its green landscapes and rich history. The church is not just important for its age but also for its beauty and the stories it holds from the past.
A Landmark in Lugo Province
The Basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo is recognized as a "Bien de Interés Cultural" in the Province of Lugo. This means it's considered a cultural heritage site that is very important to Spain's history and art.
