Los Alas Chapel

Los Alas Chapel, known locally as Capilla de los Alas, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Avilés, Asturias. This quaint yet historically rich chapel is not only a marvel of medieval architecture but also a testament to the personal ambitions and religious fervor of its founder, Pedro Juan. As you step into this serene sanctuary, you are transported back to the 14th century, a time when the chapel was a beacon of innovation and personal piety in the community.

The History of Los Alas Chapel

The story of Los Alas Chapel begins with Pedro Juan, an influential resident of Avilés, who envisioned a family mausoleum that would stand the test of time. The chapel was constructed in the mid-14th century, as evidenced by Pedro Juan's will dated 1346. This document reveals that the chapel was already built by then, with Pedro Juan's wife, Sancha Pérez, having been laid to rest within its sacred walls. Pedro Juan's desire to be buried alongside his wife and his provision for his descendants to use the chapel as their final resting place highlight the chapel's role in asserting the family's legacy and social status.

One of the intriguing aspects of the chapel's construction is the involvement of a mason named Juan Alfonso, who is mentioned in Pedro Juan's will. While it is unclear whether Juan Alfonso was the architect or simply a helper, his name adds a layer of mystery to the chapel's origins. The chapel's construction was a significant departure from the collective religious structures of the time, marking a shift towards more personal and individualized expressions of faith and social standing.

Architectural Marvel

Structurally, Los Alas Chapel is a fascinating blend of pre-Gothic and innovative architectural elements. The building is square, with meticulously crafted stone walls that reflect the wealth and status of its owner. The quality of the materials used is exceptional for the period, underscoring Pedro Juan's intention to showcase his affluence.

The most striking feature of the chapel is its Aquitaine-style roof, a hemispherical dome reinforced with ribbed supports. This type of roof, introduced to the Iberian Peninsula in the late 12th century, was a rarity in the region and showcased the chapel's architectural sophistication. The ribs of the dome converge at a keystone carved with what appears to be the face of Christ, adding a spiritual focal point to the structure. Unlike traditional Gothic constructions, where the ribs bear the weight, in Los Alas Chapel, they serve as reinforcements, distributing the weight directly to the walls.

Entering the Chapel

As you approach the chapel, you are greeted by a double archivolt entrance, adorned with intricate carvings and supported by four columns. Above the entrance, a modern coat of arms of the Alas family proudly displays a castle with three towers flanked by wings, symbolizing the family's strength and protection. The tympanum above the door features angelic heads with three-lobed wings, adding an ethereal touch to the façade.

Upon entering, visitors can observe the detailed carvings on the capitals of the columns, depicting human heads in relief. These figures, with their elaborate hairstyles and diadems, seem to engage in timeless confrontations, adding a dynamic element to the chapel's serene atmosphere. The craftsmanship is exquisite, with each strand of hair and feather meticulously rendered.

Resting Place for Generations

The primary function of Los Alas Chapel was as a family tomb, a dignified resting place for Pedro Juan and his descendants. The chapel's location, adjacent to the medieval parish church of Saint Nicholas of Bari, provided a sacred context for the family's burials. Inside, two sepulchres are located under the arches on either side of the chapel, with additional sepulchres positioned outside the chapel's walls.

Despite the damage inflicted during the Spanish Civil War, the tombstones still bear inscriptions and heraldic motifs that offer glimpses into the chapel's storied past. One of the most notable records comes from Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, who transcribed the inscriptions on the tombstones in the late 18th century, preserving the memory of the individuals interred within the chapel.

The Lost Altarpiece

Today, the interior of Los Alas Chapel appears bare, but it once housed a magnificent alabaster altarpiece. This altarpiece, described by Fortunato de Selgas in 1907 and photographed by Aurelio de Llano in 1928, depicted scenes from the lives of Christ and the Virgin Mary. The seven panels, crafted in England, showcased the artistry of London, York, and Nottingham workshops, renowned for their alabaster works in the late 14th century. Unfortunately, the altarpiece was lost during the Spanish Civil War, leaving only photographs and descriptions as remnants of its former glory.

In conclusion, Los Alas Chapel is more than just a historical monument; it is a window into the personal aspirations, religious devotion, and architectural ingenuity of its time. Its walls echo the stories of the Alas family, their triumphs, and their tribulations, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Avilés.