Mare de Déu del Tura

In the heart of the picturesque town of Olot, nestled in the Garrotxa region of Catalonia, stands the enchanting Mare de Déu del Tura. This revered sanctuary, also known as the Church of Santa Maria del Tura, is not only a testament to architectural splendor but also a beacon of cultural and historical significance.

The Architecture of Mare de Déu del Tura

The façade of the Mare de Déu del Tura is a harmonious blend of symmetry and classical inspiration. The lower section of the façade is distinguished by a grand entrance flanked by two fluted columns, each supporting an intricately designed frieze with an inscription. Above this, a striking rose window takes center stage, flanked by two sculpted figures housed within ornate niches. These elements are further adorned with pilasters and classical decorative motifs, creating a visually captivating exterior.

Upon entering the sanctuary, visitors are greeted by an interior that exudes baroque elegance. The walls are lined with pilasters featuring polychromed capitals, adding a touch of vibrant color to the space. Behind the altar, the revered statue of the Virgin Mary is enshrined within an architectural framework of columns and decorated capitals. The ceiling is a canvas of fresco paintings, adding to the sanctuary's rich artistic heritage.

A Journey Through Time

The history of Mare de Déu del Tura dates back to ancient times. The earliest mention of Olot is found in a document from 872, where King Charles the Bald of France donated an ancient church, Sancta Maria Olotis, to the Benedictine abbots of Sant Llorenç de Sous and Sant Aniol d'Aguja. In the 11th century, a new Romanesque church was constructed, which was later referenced in 1221 as part of the urban center, replacing the original Visigothic structure.

However, the church faced significant challenges, including the devastating earthquakes of 1427 and 1428, which led to its complete destruction. The reconstruction efforts were authorized by King Alfonso the Magnanimous in 1427, and the new sanctuary emerged from the ruins. The oldest surviving remnants from this era include a southern wall and a now-sealed semicircular doorway, which was closed off during an 18th-century renovation that relocated the entrance to the western side of the sanctuary.

Evolution and Restoration

In 1595, the Olot Town Council decided to expand the sanctuary, a project entrusted to the stonemason Enric Julià of Girona. The 18th century brought further transformation, driven by the town's demographic and economic growth. The new church, designed by Barcelona architect Francesc Mas, embraced the neoclassical architectural style emerging from France. However, the original baroque classicist design was later modified by architect Joan Carles Panyó i Figaró between 1790 and 1814, and the current façade was crafted by Olot architect Josep Danés i Torras in 1930.

The sanctuary faced another ordeal during the Spanish Civil War in 1936, when it was set ablaze. Initial plans to demolish the building were halted, and it was instead repurposed as a warehouse. The last major restoration, following the 1936 fire, was overseen by Olot architect Joan Aubert i Camps. The restoration aimed to faithfully recreate the original state of the sanctuary, preserving the frescoes in the dome. The restored sanctuary was inaugurated in 1943, and religious services resumed.

The Revered Image of the Virgin

At the heart of the sanctuary is the venerated image of Santa Maria del Tura, a beautiful Romanesque wooden sculpture crafted from walnut and poplar, likely dating back to the 12th century. This image, originally darkened by centuries of smoke from lamps and candles, was restored in 1988, revealing its true colors. The restoration, conducted by experts from the Generalitat de Catalunya's Conservation and Restoration Center, unveiled the original hues, dispelling the long-held belief that it was a black Madonna.

Legends and Festivities

The name Tura is rooted in a 15th-century legend. According to the tale, a bull persistently scratched the ground near the Caritat farmhouse, located on the outskirts of Olot. Curious about the animal's behavior, the farmer dug at the spot and discovered the image of the Virgin Mary. This legend, similar to those of other found Virgins like Montserrat or Núria, gave rise to the name Mare de Déu del Tura, with tura meaning bull in old Catalan.

The feast day of Mare de Déu del Tura is celebrated on September 8th, coinciding with the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. This day marks the beginning of Olot's major festival, known as the Festes del Tura. The festivities include a procession on September 6th, where the image of the Virgin is brought to the Plaça Major, followed by a performance by the town's giants. Other events include a floral offering to the Virgin, a five-day religious observance known as the Quinari, bell ringing, and a special mass attended by the bishop and local authorities.

In conclusion, the Mare de Déu del Tura is not just a sanctuary; it is a living testament to the resilience and devotion of the people of Olot. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting region of Garrotxa.