Gargoyle-Inspired MNAC: Griffins and Murals

MNAC Griffins from end of 13th century Catalonia

The MNAC (Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya) is chock full of gargoyle-inspired art, accessories, ceiling panels and statues. I especially loved the Gothic section. It took me one day just to view it. There was so much more to see and I really wanted to go back the next day and see the rest, but I misplaced my ticket that allowed me to come back for a second day. I would have had to pay again, so instead, I went on tours to other places while in Barcelona.

More 13th century Catalonia coffers

Close-up of a Griffin 13th century Catalonia

I especially enjoyed a series of mural called The Conquest of Majorca. It gives us a bird's eye view of what life was like back in this time. From MNAC website - 

The mural paintings of the Conquest of Majorca come from the former ancestral home of the Caldes family in Carrer Montcada in Barcelona, a building later known as Palau Aguilar. Discovered and removed in 1961, these paintings are one of the most important examples of early or Linear Gothic Catalan painting. This magnificent example of painting on historical subject matter narrates the conquest of the island of Majorca by James I the Conqueror in 1229.

MNAC mural Conquest of Majorca from Barcelona

MNAC Mural Conquest of Majorca from Barcelona

Fascinating stuff and so gargoyle-inspired. I do so love the Gothic much more than the Romanesque.