In Frómista's heart, a timeless tale unfolds, Where French Way's pilgrims wander, young and old. Since twelfth century's dawn, it stands in pride, In Calixtino Codex, its name doth abide. From humble monastery, Frómista's soul arose, Born of Sancho's widow, in tranquil repose. A beacon of faith, in Castilla's embrace, San Martín's legacy, a sacred grace. For decades, craftsmen toiled with care, Building Romanesque beauty, beyond compare. In nineteen hundred's dawn, a restoration divine, Preserved its splendor, for all time. San Martín de Frómista, a jewel of old, With walls that whisper tales, untold. In its hallowed halls, echoes of the past, Speak of pilgrims' journeys, that forever last. Oh, San Martín, your beauty transcends, A testament to faith, that never ends. From humble beginnings, to grandeur untold, In Fromista's heart, your story unfolds. So let us raise our voices high, In praise of San Martín, reaching the sky. For in its walls, history's echo rings, A timeless tribute, to sacred things.
Spain
Cathedrals and Churches, Medieval Internet hubs focused on Storytelling
Interior of Église Saint-Martin, Saint-Valery-sur-Somme (France).
Cathedrals and churches, adorned with statues of saints and imagery, functioned as medieval equivalents of internet sites, seamlessly connecting individuals to a vast network of stories and teachings. Just as one navigates through web pages, visitors to cathedrals could explore the narratives depicted in sculptures, paintings, and stained glass windows. Each saint or image served as a portal to a distinct storyline, offering moral lessons, accounts of miraculous deeds, and examples of piety. Pilgrims and worshippers had the opportunity to access this treasury of tales, fostering a connection with the spiritual and cultural legacy of their community. In essence, cathedrals served as pivotal centers of information and inspiration, granting entry to a rich reservoir of religious and moral wisdom, much akin to browsing the web for knowledge and enlightenment.
Altarpiece by Juan de Valmaseda (1524), Cathedral of León (Spain)
Covadonga (Spain)
Covadonga is an important historical site in Spain due to the symbolism it represents for Spanish identity and history. It is known as the place where the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of Spain, began in 718.
According to legend, the Visigothic nobleman Pelayo led a group of Asturian warriors against the Moorish army of Tariq ibn Ziyad in the Battle of Covadonga. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Pelayo and his men managed to defeat the Moorish forces, marking the beginning of the Reconquista.
Pelayo's victory is considered a turning point in the history of Spain, as it was the first time that Moorish rule in Spain was challenged. The Asturian kingdom, emerging from Pelayo's triumph, became the first Christian state on the Iberian Peninsula and laid the foundation for the reconquest of Spain by the Christian kingdoms.
Santiago Matamoros: St. James the Moor-slayer
Saint James, or Santiago in Spanish, is often referred to as "Santiago Matamoros" or "Saint James the Moor-slayer" in English. The history behind this nickname is rooted in medieval Christian traditions and the Reconquista, the period of time in which Christian kingdoms in the Iberian Peninsula sought to reclaim territories that had been conquered by Muslim Moors.
According to legend, during the Battle of Clavijo in the early 9th century, Christians under the leadership of King Ramiro I of Asturias were fighting against Muslim forces. The Christians were reportedly losing the battle when suddenly, a vision of Saint James on a white horse, wielding a sword, appeared to them.
As a result of this legend and the belief that Saint James played a role in the Christian victory over the Moors, he became a symbol of inspiration for the Christian soldiers during the Reconquista. St. James’ nickname reflects this role as the "Moor-slayer" or "Moor-killer."
Note: Historians never found any proof for the Battle of Clavijo. They are almost certain that this battle never took place.
Roman "Head", Museo Nacional de Arte Romano, Merida (Spain)
Sculpture of the head of a Roman man. - Museo Nacional de Arte Romano, Merida.
For two millennia, his gaze holds fast, A Roman's likeness, sculpted to last. Through epochs of change, his eyes still gleam, A portrait of time, a silent dream. In marble, he stands, a frozen glance, Across centuries, his form enchants. From ancient days to modern sight, His presence bridges time with might. Though ages pass, his essence endures, A testament to art's timeless allure.
Saint Blase Procession, Bocairent (Spain), 2023
Saint Blaise, patron of healers bold, Your mercy and grace, a story untold. Protector of throats, with gentle care, Your blessings soothe, beyond compare. In Bocairent's streets, your presence reigns, A beacon of hope, where faith sustains. With candles bright and prayers sincere, Your love and guidance, ever near. Oh, Saint Blaise, we sing your praise, In awe of your miraculous ways.