Church of Sant Esteve, Olot

In the heart of the picturesque town of Olot, nestled within the captivating landscapes of La Garrotxa in Catalonia, Spain, stands the magnificent Church of Sant Esteve, known locally as Iglesia de San Esteban. This architectural gem, protected as a cultural asset of national interest, offers visitors a fascinating journey through history, art, and spirituality.

The Architectural Marvel

The Church of Sant Esteve is a splendid example of neoclassical architecture, with its construction dating back to the 18th century. The church boasts a Latin cross layout, featuring a single nave that stretches 58 meters in length and 37.4 meters in width, with a transept measuring 52 meters. The height of the structure reaches an impressive 34.5 meters, creating a grand and imposing presence in the town's skyline.

The façade of the church, constructed in 1800 and later embellished in 1886, was originally intended to consist of three sections: the central front and two bell towers. However, the project remained unfinished, resulting in a unique and somewhat asymmetrical appearance. The access stairs, wider at the base and narrowing as they ascend, consist of eighteen steps divided into two sets of nine, flanked by elaborately decorated railings. At the base of the stairs, two bases support lanterns, adding to the church's grandeur.

Intricate Details and Artistic Touches

The south façade features the Door of the Dead, adorned with volutes and an arch with the coat of arms of Olot and various foliage. The upper part of this façade is particularly noteworthy, decorated with glazed bricks in alternating yellow and blue colors. A large oculus with an iron cross grille sits at the center, while the undulating cornice with green glazed tiles and two pinnacles on either side add to the visual splendor.

Inside the church, the baptismal font is located in the chapel on the epistle side, and six holy water fonts from the 18th century are decorated with angel heads and floral motifs. Additionally, three sepulchral slabs from the 14th and 15th centuries are embedded in the walls of the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, adding a touch of historical mystery to the sacred space.

A Treasure Trove of Art

The Church of Sant Esteve houses several significant works of art, each contributing to its cultural and historical value. Among these are:

• The Roser altarpiece, crafted by Pau Costa between 1704 and 1707, made of carved and polychromed wood.
• The polychromed sculpture of the Holy Christ by Ramon Amadeu i Grau from the early 19th century.
• The polychromed sculpture representing Angels with the Veronica, also by Ramon Amadeu i Grau.
• A series of eight oil paintings on canvas by Joan Carles Panyó i Figaró, created in the early 19th century.
• The polychromed alabaster sculpture of Saint Stephen by Josep Clarà i Ayats, completed in 1949.
• The polychromed wood sculpture of an angel with garlands by Manuel Cabarrocas, dating from 1828 to 1837.
• The polychromed wood relief of Our Lady of Montserrat from the 17th to 18th centuries.
• The polychromed wood sculpture of Saint Francis of Assisi from the 19th to 20th centuries.
• The polychromed wood sculpture of the Pietà by Ramon Amadeu i Grau from the early 19th century.
• The polychromed wood tabernacle by Joan Carles Panyó i Figaró from 1829, with a reproduction from 1947-1948.
• The polychromed wood altarpiece of Saint Joseph, created by Pau Costa and others between 1707 and 1728.
• The polychromed wood altar of Saint Anthony, completed in 1727.
• The polychromed wood relief of the Virgin of Tura from the 17th to 18th centuries.
• The polychromed wood altar of the Sacred Heart by Josep Berga i Boada from the early 20th century.

A Journey Through Time

The history of the Church of Sant Esteve is a testament to the resilience and devotion of the people of Olot. The earliest records date back to 846, with a document from the Carolingian emperor Charles the Bald. The original structure, likely of Visigothic origin, was situated on a volcanic hill, the Puig de Sant Esteve, outside the walled town of Olot.

Over the centuries, the church underwent several reconstructions. In 1116, a Romanesque church was consecrated, followed by a Gothic structure in the mid-14th century. The devastating earthquakes of 1427 destroyed much of the Gothic building, leading to the construction of a new church in the 16th century, which eventually gave way to the current neoclassical structure built between 1750 and 1763.

The church has witnessed numerous historical events, including the Wars of Remences in the 15th century, during which it served as a fortress. The integration of the parish into the urban fabric of Olot in the 16th century marked a significant turning point in its history. The present-day church, with its neoclassical design, stands as a symbol of the town's enduring faith and cultural heritage.

A Living Monument

The Church of Sant Esteve is not just a historical monument; it is a living, breathing part of the community. In recent years, efforts have been made to restore and preserve its architectural and artistic treasures. In 2016, the clock hands on the bell tower were replaced with lighter, more durable steel ones, ensuring the clock continues to mark time for the town. In 2019, the traditional Tocs de Sant Esteve bell chimes were revived, celebrating the feast day of the parish's patron saint.

As you explore the Church of Sant Esteve, you will be captivated by its rich history, stunning architecture, and the sense of timelessness that pervades its sacred halls. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, this remarkable church offers a profound and enriching experience.