hearing
On the southern façade of the Cathedral, the faithful gather in front of the entrance to the church, in the large outdoor area.
They gather under the marvellous Catalan Gothic portico, the work of Magister Antonio Gambara, and prepare to attend religious services. People from all walks of life are present, flocking to give thanks and praise to the Assumption of Mary, to whom the Cathedral is dedicated. Before crossing the threshold, they talk to each other while the tolling of the bells announcing the imminent celebration spreads from the bell tower to the floor and all the surrounding streets.
sight
In the flat area of the portico façade, between the arched sixths and the band above, which is ordered with the theory of the saints, a series of spirals comes to life, with figures of various kinds. The eyes of the beholder are filled with wonder: a fascinating tree of life appears, almost as if by magic. The intertwining of the tree’s spiral structure starts with a female figure. The woman holds branches in her hands, winding from the left to the right and containing mythical figures from medieval bestiaries.
touch
One can still admire the skill with which Antonio Gambara created the portico, in 1429, using reused materials. The stone’s durability was moulded by the skilful hands of the Magister, who envisaged a work of art in the Catalan Gothic style. Entrance is gained through three pointed arches resting on reused columns with capitals decorated with plant motifs. The three arches are decorated with a twisted frame.
