The Arch of Fernán González is an architectural jewel that proudly soars within the cityscape. This monument, crafted in the Herrerian style, stands not only as a testament to the region’s affluent history but also as a tribute to an iconic figure, Fernán González, the first independent Count of Castile.
History and Construction
The Arch of Fernán González was erected between 1581 and 1587 upon the city council’s initiative to honor Fernán González’s memory. Tradition holds that the arch was constructed upon the erstwhile site of the Count’s residence, nestled within the ancient Tenebregosa street, now known as Fernán González Street, in close proximity to the Castle of Burgos and the Solar of The Cid.
Who was Fernán González?
Fernán González, an historic figure of considerable significance within Spain’s annals, specifically within the region of Castile. Born circa 910, Fernán González is famed as the inaugural independent Count of Castile, though this title has been the subject of scholarly debate. Throughout his life, Fernán González ascended to become one of the most influential nobles within the Kingdom of León and played a crucial role in the formation of Castile as a distinct political entity.
Fernán González was born at the Castle of Lara, in Lara de los Infantes, and was a member of the influential Lara family. His father was Gonzalo Fernández, Count of Burgos and Castile, and his mother was the noblewoman Muniadonna. From a young age, Fernán González demonstrated robust leadership and ambition, which ultimately led him to consolidate the counties of Burgos, Castile, Álava, Lantarón, and Cerezo under his rule in 931.
Juan Ortega de Castañeda
Master stonemason Juan Ortega de Castañeda was entrusted with the task of breathing life into this monument. The design of the arch is semi-circular, flanked by Tuscan columns. On the superior body, there is a large rectangular panel supporting a cartouche with an honorary Latin inscription, attributed to Friar Luis de León. This inscription, encircled by the coat of arms of Castile and León and of Burgos, translated into Spanish reads: “To Fernán González, Count of Castile, the greatest leader and defender of his time, progenitor of great kings, to his compatriot in the place of his house, by public initiative, this monument is raised for eternal memory and glory.”
The Arch Through the Centuries
Despite its robust construction, the Arch of Fernán González has faced challenges throughout the centuries. The uneven terrain on which the arch was built has instigated a gradual degradation of the monument. However, efforts to preserve and restore this significant landmark have been undertaken over the years.
In 1812, an auction was held for the reconditioning and underpinning of the Arch. In 1826, a request for the arch’s repair was filed, although the agreement was not reached until 1828. In 1918, the city architect issued a report on the causes of the cracks appearing in the Arch, signaling its deteriorating state. In 1938, the Provincial Commission of Historical and Artistic Monuments once again urged the urgency of its restoration. In 1941, some restoration works were carried out under the supervision of city architect Mr. José Luis Gutiérrez.
The Arch Today
Today, the Arch of Fernán González continues to be a prominent landmark in Burgos. Despite the challenges, the arch has withstood the test of time and remains a testament to the region’s rich history. Nonetheless, the arch necessitates restoration. In 2019, firefighters had to remove one of the pinnacles as it threatened to topple.
Despite the hurdles, the Arch of Fernán González remains an important point of reference in Burgos. The arch has weathered the passage of time and continues to bear witness to the region’s abundant history.
The Arch of Fernán González is not solely an historical monument, but also an integral element within the popular culture of Burgos. In 1943, the mayor of Burgos proclaimed the Manifesto for the Millennium of Castile beneath the arch, reaffirming its significance as an emblem of regional identity.
