Gothic sculptures
Polychrome Gothic sculptures of extraordinary uniqueness and artistic value stand out in the upper cloister of the monastery.
Polychrome Gothic sculptures of extraordinary uniqueness and artistic value stand out in the upper cloister of the monastery.
The cloister dates back to the beginning of the 16th Century and it was built at the behest of the Duchess of Gandia, María Enríquez de Luna, in late Valencian Gothic style.
It presents ribbed vaults with keystones and corbels decorated with sculptures of angels carrying the instruments of the passion and death of Christ. These instruments are the crown of thorns and the cross, and are attributed to the renowned Valencian sculptor, Damià Forment.
The angels of the corbels also carry a banner with the inscription of a verse of the “Vulgate Bible” (first translation of the Bible from Hebrew to Latin, made by St. Jerome and authorized by the Catholic Church). The corbels were damaged during the Spanish Civil War.
At the back of the upper cloister, the sculptures of two lions can be seen, which give name to the “Puerta de los Leones” (Lions Gate). These sculptures are located on both sides, carrying the noble coat of arms of the Duchess of Gandia, María Enríquez de Luna. In the center, there is a sculpture of an angel, also carrying the coat of arms of the Duchess of Gandia.
