Collegiate Church of San Pedro de Cervatos
Facts and practical information
The Collegiate Church of San Pedro de Cervatos is a remarkable Romanesque church nestled in the Cantabria region of Spain. This architectural gem, dating back to the 12th century, is renowned for its exquisite stone carvings and historical significance.
The church was originally part of a monastery and served as a collegiate church, a status that denotes a church with a group of clergy called canons. Its Romanesque architecture is characterized by semi-circular arches, robust structures, and massive quality. What sets the Collegiate Church of San Pedro de Cervatos apart, however, is its richly decorated façade and capitals, featuring an array of secular and symbolic motifs that are unusual for religious sites of the period.
One of the most striking features of the church is its collection of erotically-themed sculptures, which have sparked curiosity and debate among historians and visitors alike. These sculptures are thought to serve as a warning against sin and temptation, or possibly as fertility symbols, reflecting the earthy and human aspects of medieval spirituality.
Cantabria