Elites, architecture and church foundation in Galicia between the ninth and tenth centuries
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Abstract
This paper explores the relationship between the social powers and church construction in Galicia (Northwest Spain) between the ninth and tenth centuries by combining textual and archaeological information. The study presents an unprecedented analysis of an exhaustive compilation of both kinds of sources for this territory dating from before the year 1000. We will focus on 23 cases for which textual and archaeological evidence coincide, allowing us to explore who promoted the construction of the churches in this region and how and when this happened. After reviewing the available data, we will analyse the social characteristics of the founders, as well as the technological aspects behind the buildings (construction techniques, plans, architectural sculpture, materials, decoration…). Results show how the highest aristocracies of the region invested intensely in quality architecture during this specific period as a key part of power strategies in the context of the internal consolidation of the Astur-Leonese Kingdom.
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