Geneville
CODES SAW
St. Stephen's Parish
In the heart of the urban area of Genevilla is the Parish of San Esteban, a proto-Gothic construction that dates back to approximately the year 1200. This building underwent a significant transformation in the mid-XNUMXth century, which gave it its current Gothic-Renaissance appearance. The church is a testament to the rich architectural and artistic heritage of the region.
One of the most outstanding elements of this church is its main altarpiece, a work of expressive style typical of the second third of the 1563th century. Traditionally, its authorship has been attributed to the sculptor Andrés de Araoz, who lived in Genevilla in XNUMX. However, some critics suggest that it could be related to the circle of the sculptor Arnao of Brussels, which adds an interesting debate about its origin and authorship. .
The main altarpiece is an impressive piece of Renaissance architecture. It is composed of a bank, three sections of five streets and an attic, creating a splendid framework for the rich iconography of carvings and reliefs that adorn it. Particularly noteworthy are the apostolate groups located in the first body, the Calvary and the image of Saint Stephen, the head of the church, whose delicate face reflects a strong expressiveness. The figures in the altarpiece present faces with marked cheekbones, nervous hair and dynamic clothing, characteristics that are related to the work of Arnao de Bruxelles. However, other parts of the altarpiece show a more uneven quality, suggesting the possible intervention of Andrés de Araoz or his circle. Read more
Despite having been retouched in the Baroque period, the original polychrome that is still preserved on the altarpiece is a testament to its richness and decorativeness. In addition to the main altarpiece, the church houses another significant altarpiece, that of San Juan Bautista, which shares the same chronology and Plateresque style from the second third of the 16th century and is also attributed to Andrés de Araoz.
Hermitages of Genevilla
In Genevilla there were two important hermitages: the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Encinedo and the Hermitage of the Virgin of Loreto. Both hermitages have medieval origins, although they have undergone important renovations over the centuries. The Hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Encinedo is still preserved, while the images of both hermitages now form part of the main altarpiece of the Parish of San Esteban.
These hermitages represent a vital part of the religious history of Genevilla. The Hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Encinedo, in particular, continues to be a place of devotion for the town's inhabitants. Its medieval structure, although modified, remains a testament to the faith and history of the local community.
