Gargoyles – Dolores Herrero

Gargoyles at the University in El Burgo de Osma (Spain)

Gargoyles at the University in El Burgo de Osma (Spain)

  The University of Santa Catalina in El Burgo de Osma (Soria) was founded by the bishop and benefactor Pedro Álvarez de Acosta (1539-1563) with the idea of setting up the first centre of learning in the province of Soria. Building work on what would eventually...
Dogs and their Portrayal in Gargoyles

Dogs and their Portrayal in Gargoyles

  Gargoyles We’re combining art and history once again to link magnificent gargoyle sculptures with the history of the symbolism of the figures they most commonly depict. We’ve already looked at the symbolism of the lion, which, together with eagles...
The Lion and its Portrayal in Gargoyles

The Lion and its Portrayal in Gargoyles

  Gargoyles Bestiaries are one of the main sources for understanding the symbolic meaning of animals. They reveal the symbolism of these creatures as well as their positive and negative powers. The portrayals refer to these powers and in many cases they serve to...
Types of Gargoyles

Types of Gargoyles

  Generally speaking, gargoyles can be classified into three kinds of figures, humans, animals and monsters. It’s difficult to establish an exact classification of all kinds of gargoyles, as one figure may belong to one or more types. Fantastical or...
Gargoyles in the History of Art

Gargoyles in the History of Art

  Looking at them as a passer-by, I’ve always been really attracted to gargoyles. This is undoubtedly the main reason why I chose to write a PhD thesis on them. However, as an art historian, I’m passionate about art in general, especially medieval...