CHURCH OF SAINT-BLAISE HOSPITAL
The church features elements of Hispano-Moorish architecture that give it its distinctive character
A Unesco World Heritage Site, this 12th-century church is Romanesque in design, with its squat shape, thick walls and small openings, and features elements of Hispano-Moorish architecture that give it its distinctive character. This unadorned monument of modest dimensions has a central plan centered on the dome. It's a Spanish building on French soil, the remains of a medieval hospital foundation that welcomed pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela. Built in the local tawny shale, with elements of yellow or ochre sandstone for the ancient sculpture, it features an octagonal dome that covers the transept crossing with its stellar geometry, its eight sides supported by intersecting arches forming an eight-pointed star. A fine example of Muslim architecture from Cordoba or Toledo, as are the stone-grilled windows set into the thick walls. Another remarkable feature: the oak cornices of the chevet, carved with billets and Hispano-Mudejar motifs, date from the 12th century (a unique example!). This church is original in more ways than one, and to help you discover it, an audio tour is available in six languages. From April to November, take part in the Son et Lumière show, featuring Basque songs and animated images projected onto the walls of the building, which enhances the interior of the church and takes visitors on a journey through time, in the footsteps of the pilgrims.
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