Diocesan Museum of Huesca

The Diocesan Museum of Huesca, nestled in the heart of the historic city of Huesca, Spain, is a treasure trove of sacred art and historical artifacts. Known locally as Museo Diocesano de Huesca, this museum offers a captivating journey through centuries of religious and cultural history, housed within the majestic setting of the Huesca Cathedral's precincts.

The History of the Diocesan Museum of Huesca

The museum's origins date back to 1945, when Bishop Lino Rodrigo established a collection of sacred objects in the cathedral's antechamber and chapter hall. This collection, known as the Treasure of the Cathedral, was curated by Canon Estanislao Tricas Sipán. By 1950, thanks to the efforts of historian Antonio Durán Gudiol, the collection gained official recognition as a museum through an episcopal decree. The museum underwent several transformations, including a temporary closure from 1969 to 1972 for cathedral restorations. It reopened in 1975 under Bishop Javier Osés Flamarique, with a new location within the temple.

Exploring the Museum’s Collections

The Diocesan Museum of Huesca is divided into four main sections, each showcasing a different era of sacred art: Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance-Baroque, and a collection of goldsmithery. Visitors can also explore a small archaeological collection and a display of medieval texts. The goldsmithery section, housed in the chapter hall, features exquisite works from the medieval period, including three Romanesque caskets from the Limoges workshop and a silver predella from 1367 in the Italogothic style.

Romanesque and Gothic Treasures

The Romanesque section is set within two cloisters: the Romanesque cloister and the Gothic cloister of Pope Luna. The Romanesque cloister walls preserve medieval burials and sepulchral slabs with inscriptions from the 12th to the 14th centuries. This area also features various murals and polychrome sculptures from different parts of the diocese. In contrast, the Gothic cloister displays 15th-century Gothic paintings, offering a glimpse into the artistic evolution of the period.

Renaissance-Baroque Splendor

The Renaissance-Baroque section begins with the 16th-century main altarpiece, commissioned by the Abbot of Montearagón and the Archbishop of Zaragoza, crafted by sculptor Gil de Morlanes the Elder. The room also houses 16th-century paintings with Flemish influences, an 18th-century silver altar depicting saints from Huesca, and various Baroque sculptures from the 18th century. The choir stalls of the cathedral, carved between 1577 and 1591, are also part of this collection, although only 55 of the original 85 stalls remain following dismantlement during the late 20th century.

A Journey Through Time

Visitors to the Diocesan Museum of Huesca are treated to a rich tapestry of history and art, with each room revealing stories from different eras. The museum's carefully curated exhibits not only highlight the artistic achievements of the past but also reflect the cultural and religious transformations that have shaped the region over the centuries.

Visiting the Museum

The museum is conveniently located in the cathedral square, making it an easy addition to any itinerary exploring the historic center of Huesca. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the region's heritage, the Diocesan Museum of Huesca offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. With its diverse collections and rich history, it's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through this picturesque part of Spain.

In conclusion, the Diocesan Museum of Huesca stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of sacred art and history in the region. Its halls echo with the stories of the past, inviting visitors to step back in time and discover the beauty and significance of Huesca's cultural heritage. A visit to this museum is not just a journey through art, but a journey through the soul of Huesca itself.