Lancelot in Olite: architectural paradigms and literary references in the palaces of Charles III of Navarre (1387-1425)

Abstract

This paper examines to what extent the new distribution of rooms in royal French palaces at the time of Charles V, the Wise (Vincennes and Le Louvre), and the constitution of a residential complex with towers in the Papal Palace in Avignon, served as models for the enlargement of the Royal Palace of Olite commissioned by Charles III, King of Navarre (1387-1425). The second phase of the works (1411-1420) included buildings in fanciful shapes, for which French patterns have not been identified. The author proposes for them an explanation based on literary references (the Prose Lancelot), the personality of the King and the vicissitudes of his reign. Documentation proves the King’s direct supervision over the palace project and the high regard that architectural enterprises had in his own regard of royalty.