Cámara Santa

The Cámara Santa, or Cámara Santa de Oviedo as it is known locally, is a hidden gem nestled within the grandiose Oviedo Cathedral in Asturias, Spain. This pre-Romanesque architectural marvel, constructed in the 9th century, stands as one of the oldest and most revered structures within the cathedral complex. The Cámara Santa has served as a sanctuary for sacred relics and treasures of the cathedral for centuries, a role it continues to fulfill to this day.

The Historical Significance of the Cámara Santa

The Cámara Santa is composed of two superimposed chapels, each with its own unique charm and historical importance. The lower chapel, known as the Crypt of Santa Leocadia, and the upper chapel, dedicated to Saint Michael, are both adjacent to the older structure called the Tower of San Miguel. This tower, now obscured by later constructions, was originally built to protect the sacred relics housed within.

Throughout its history, the Cámara Santa has undergone several transformations. In the 12th century, significant renovations were made, including the replacement of the original wooden vault with a barrel vault. This period also saw the addition of Romanesque columns adorned with intricate apostolic carvings, which have since become one of the chapel's defining features.

Despite the ravages of time and conflict, the Cámara Santa has remained a resilient symbol of faith and heritage. During the Asturian Revolution of 1934, the chapel was severely damaged by explosives. However, a meticulous reconstruction effort in the late 1930s and early 1940s restored the Cámara Santa to its former glory, using original materials wherever possible. This painstaking restoration culminated in the chapel's reconsecration on September 6, 1942.

The Crypt of Santa Leocadia

The Crypt of Santa Leocadia, the lower chapel of the Cámara Santa, is a serene and solemn space. Its rectangular layout is capped with a barrel vault that rises to a modest height of 2.3 meters. The crypt is divided into two distinct areas: the nave at the entrance and the presbytery at the rear, where the altar is located.

Upon entering the crypt, visitors are greeted by the sight of three tombs excavated into the earth, oriented east-west and covered with intricately carved slabs. The presbytery retains its original flooring and features a substantial stone altar resting atop the tomb of Dulcidio, an important figure in the chapel's history. A small window with a Greek cross allows a gentle light to filter into this sacred space, adding to its tranquil ambiance.

The Chapel of Saint Michael

Above the Crypt of Santa Leocadia lies the Chapel of Saint Michael, a space of profound spiritual and historical significance. This chapel, like the crypt below, is rectangular in shape and divided into three distinct sections: the antechamber, nave, and presbytery.

The antechamber serves as the entryway to the chapel, with both the original and current entrances located here. The nave, which has seen several alterations over the centuries, was originally topped with a wooden roof that was later replaced with a barrel vault. The presbytery, enclosed by a decorative grille, houses the revered relics of the cathedral.

Among the treasures safeguarded within the Chapel of Saint Michael are the Holy Ark, the Holy Shroud, the Cross of Victory, the Cross of the Angels, and the Agate Box. These relics, along with other significant artifacts such as the Nicodemus Christ, a 12th-century ivory sculpture, and the Book of Testaments, offer a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of Oviedo.

The Romanesque Sculptures

The Chapel of Saint Michael is also renowned for its collection of Romanesque sculptures, considered some of the finest examples from this period. Six pairs of statues, representing the apostles, are strategically placed at the four corners and midway along the walls, creating a sense of interaction and individuality among the figures. These statues, once believed to be the work of the Master Mateo, now are attributed to a later period but still reflect the influence of this master sculptor.

The intricate carvings on the bases and capitals of these statues, along with the decorative elements added during the nave's renovation, showcase the artistic prowess of the craftsmen who worked on the chapel. The vibrant polychromy that once adorned these sculptures has faded over time, but their detailed craftsmanship remains a testament to the skill and devotion of their creators.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the Cámara Santa was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998, as part of the Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of Asturias designation. This prestigious status underscores the importance of the Cámara Santa not only to Oviedo and Asturias but to the world at large.

In 2015, the Cámara Santa was further honored by being included in the extended designation of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Camino Francés and Routes of Northern Spain by UNESCO. This inclusion highlights the chapel's role as a significant landmark along the ancient pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.

The Cámara Santa stands as a beacon of faith, history, and artistry in the heart of Oviedo. Its walls, imbued with centuries of devotion and craftsmanship, continue to inspire and captivate all who visit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a pilgrim on the Camino de Santiago, a visit to the Cámara Santa offers a profound and enriching experience that connects you to the spiritual and cultural heritage of Asturias.