A Modern Enigma in an Ancient Temple
In the heart of Salamanca, one of Spain’s most emblematic cities, stands the majestic New Cathedral, an architectural jewel of the Renaissance and the Baroque. But among its numerous gargoyles, columns, and richly decorated facades, a figure hides that baffles and surprises visitors: an astronaut.
Yes, you read that correctly. On one of the New Cathedral’s facades, specifically the Puerta de Ramos (Ramos Gate), an astronaut is carved, complete with a helmet, spacesuit, and even a type of tube resembling an oxygen hose. This figure appears completely out of place in a religious construction begun in the 16th century. How did it get there? Is it proof of time travel? A hidden message? The explanation, though less fantastical, is still intriguing.
A Modern Touch in a Restoration
The astronaut figure is not an inexplicable mystery, but the result of a modern intervention. It was added during the restoration work carried out in 1992, coinciding with the Seville Universal Exposition and as part of an effort to conserve and renovate the historical heritage.
According to a tradition among restorers, it is common for them to leave their ‘signature’ or mark on the works they intervene on. Jerónimo García, the sculptor in charge of restoring the façade, decided to incorporate a contemporary element to represent the 20th century. And what better symbol of the modern era than an astronaut.
Why an astronaut?
The astronaut symbolizes the spirit of exploration, technological advancement, and the great achievements of humanity in the 20th century. It was a creative and discreet way to link the past with the present, without altering the overall artistic context of the cathedral. Although some purists criticized this inclusion, it is a fact that today it has become one of the most photographed and commented-on attractions in the city.
Other Curious Details
The astronaut is not alone. If you carefully examine the same facade, you can also find other figures added during the restoration, such as a dragon eating an ice cream, a lynx, or a stork. All of them are part of that modern wink that the restorers left to surprise those who stop to observe the details.
A Blend of Art, History, and Humor
The presence of the astronaut in the Cathedral of Salamanca reminds us that even the most solemn monuments can have space for humor, creativity, and dialogue between eras. It does not alter the historical value of the temple but enriches it, attracting the curiosity of new generations who might not have stopped to look at a Renaissance façade were it not for that mysterious man from space.
