Iglesia de San Pedro (Mestas de Con) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Iglesia de San Pedro (Mestas de Con)
Location	Asturias,  Spain

The Church of San Pedro is a beautiful old church located in Mestas de Con. This small village is part of Cangas de Onís, a town in the region of Asturias, Spain. The church is built in the Romanesque style, which was popular many centuries ago. It is a Roman Catholic church, meaning it belongs to the largest Christian church in the world.

What is Romanesque Architecture?

Romanesque architecture was a style of building that became popular in Europe around the 11th and 12th centuries. It was used mostly for churches, castles, and monasteries. This style came after the Pre-Romanesque period and before the Gothic style.

Key Features of Romanesque Churches

Romanesque buildings are known for being very strong and solid. They often look like fortresses.

• Thick Walls: Romanesque churches have very thick stone walls. These walls were needed to support the heavy stone roofs.
• Round Arches: You will see many round arches in Romanesque buildings. These arches are used for windows, doors, and inside the church.
• Small Windows: Because the walls are so thick, the windows are usually small and narrow. This made the inside of the church a bit dark.
• Barrel Vaults: Many Romanesque churches have a type of roof called a barrel vault. This is a long, rounded arch that forms the ceiling.
• Simple Decorations: While some Romanesque churches have carvings, they are often simpler than later styles. They might show religious stories or patterns.

Why Churches Were Built This Way

In the Middle Ages, building techniques were different. Architects used thick walls and round arches because they were strong and stable. This was important for large buildings like churches. The style also gave a feeling of safety and strength, which was important during that time.

San Pedro Church in Asturias

The Church of San Pedro is a great example of Romanesque architecture in Asturias. Asturias is a region in northern Spain known for its green landscapes and historic buildings. Many old churches and monasteries can be found there.

Location and Importance

Mestas de Con is a small place, but its church is an important part of the local history. Churches like San Pedro were not just places for worship. They were also important centers for the community. People would gather there for events, news, and social life.

The church is recognized as a "Bien de Interés Cultural." This means it is a protected heritage site in Spain. It is considered very important for its history and art.

See also

In Spanish: Iglesia de San Pedro (Mestas de Con) para niños

• Asturian art
• Catholic Church in Spain

References