Santa Maria Dal Naranco church OVIEDO / Spain description:This is one of the pre romanesque churches in the area of Oviedo. it is a nieghbor to the Saint Michael church of Lillo. Since 1995, this is UNESCO World Heritage.
This church was built in 848, and was part of a larger complex of building which also included Saint Michael's church close to the Royal Palace of Ramiro I of Asturia. It beca;e a real churchm devoted to Saint Mary during the 12th century.
Construction wise, this building was an important step forward, housing features later found back in many romanesue churches. We point f.e. at the many windows with rounded arches and passage under semi-circular arch . But also the e tunnel vaults, removing the need for wooden ceilings, and the relatilily fine construction were spectacular for the time of construction.
The building has 2 levels. Under is a crypt.
Although there was enough space in the interior, probably some services were held with the 'nnormal' people on the outside. This explains the gallery with the tiny pillqrs. Later, those galleries would get a very different role in the Romanesque churches.
The decorations are another highlight of this church. We point at the Greek crosses - the sy;bol of the Asturian dynasty - but also a symbol of the protection of the building. There are 32 medaillons in different sizes, something typical Visigoth (they learned in Byzantium).
The current altar would be coming from the Saint Michael church.
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