An interdisciplinary analysis of the sculptural ensemble of the Monastery of San Salvador de Oña (1141-1460)

Abstract

This exhaustive study deals with the evolution of the architectural ensemble of the refectory of the Monastery of San Salvador de Oña from its foundation in 1141 to its last decoration between 1430 and 1460. An interdisciplinary methodology is employed that integrates historical sources, artistic techniques, and advanced chemical analyses, including FTIR, UV, SEM-BSE and GC-MS, to provide a comprehensive view of this heritage site. The historical contextualization examines the importance of the monastery in the medieval context, while the literature review critically evaluates documentary sources and previous studies on Romanesque and Gothic architecture in medieval monasteries. The proposed methodology encompasses artistic techniques for carving and decoration analysis, as well as chemical analysis techniques for identifying materials and inner layers. The results reveal the stylistic evolution from Gothic to Renaissance, providing a synergistic view of artistic and chemical aspects. The discussion interprets these findings in relation to historical events and changes in artistic practice. This study contributes significantly to the understanding of medieval monastic architecture, highlighting the usefulness of an interdisciplinary approach to unravel the historical and artistic complexity of such an emblematic site as the Monastery of San Salvador de Oña.