Among the extensive repertoire of examples we can find through History, it is the splendid
plateresque fagade of the University of Salamanca one of the foremost paradigms of symbolism.
I could hardly keep my eyes open to admire the fascinating facade which has been characterized as
Plateresque. In a way, one could read buildings-churches among them-like a book.
The eastern end of the church is dominated by a sixteenth century
plateresque altar.
Option to book online at: www.newmarket.travel/wme16058 Madrid Salamanca & Toledo April 25 and June 3 2010, seven days from pounds 599 Salamanca, home to one of Europe's oldest universities, boasts a wealth of lovely buildings and a highly ornate style of architecture known as
Plateresque.
The stylistic input belonged to the high B aroque era with Mannerist or
Plateresque ornamentation on the facades - as was the rage in Spain at the time.
The facade of the public university, built between 1415 and 1433, is a complex melange of iconography, considered among the most renowned examples of Spanish
Plateresque. (This style, singularly identified with Salamanca and its malleable sandstone, is named after the complex carvings that resemble highly stylized silverware.) The facade portrays the royal patrons, Ferdinand and Isabella, and the pope surrounded by cardinals and religious insignia.
Completed in 1788, the outside is decorated with elaborate Churrigueresque carvings while the inside features three altars done in ornate
Plateresque, Baroque and Chiaroscuro styles.