Codex Calixtinus
Unveiling medieval marvels: The journey of Santiago de Compostela
The Codex Calixtinus, originating from the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in the twelfth century, is an invaluable manuscript shedding light on social life in Romanesque France and serves as a significant witness to the pilgrimage routes to St. James’ shrine in Galicia, Spain. It is recognized as a primary source providing practical advice for travelers, offering insights into social, religious, artistic, and musical life in early 12th century France.
Intended as an anthology of pre-existent sources, the manuscript is made up of five volumes containing liturgical texts, a collection of miracles associated with St. James, the account of the transfer of his body to Galicia, the history of the Battle of Roncesvalles, and the Pilgrim’s Guide. Its two appendices include the earliest known examples of polyphonic songs.
The decorative program of the Codex Calixtinus includes three narrative scenes depicting key moments from the history of Charlemagne and Roland, three portrait initials featuring St. James, Pope Callixtus II, and Archbishop Turpin, and eighteen interlaced initials with fleshy vines and dragon forms set against solid-colored backgrounds.
The script in the Codex Calixtinus transitions from protogothic to a more compressed, elegant hand over time. It features rubrics and titles in colored Roman Capitals with some Uncial forms, along with annotations added in the later twelfth to fourteenth centuries.
Discovered in the cathedral archives by Padre Fidel Fita in 1886, the codex garnered international attention when stolen in 2011 and subsequently recovered. Now inscribed in the UNESCO Memory of the World register, it remains a significant cultural and historical artifact.
Considered the “Bible” of the Camino de Santiago, the Codex Calixtinus offers a wide range of information related to the famous pilgrimage guide. This historical guide, divided into chapters, offers itineraries, practical references, warnings and captivating information for pilgrims.
The facsimile edition of the Codex Calixtinus is complemented by a bookcase for its conservation and a complementary study book made by subject matter experts.
This facsimile is a unique edition of 995 books numbered and authenticated by notarial deed.
Details
Tech Sheet
DATE:
XII century.
ORIGINAL KEPT:
Santiago de Compostela cathedral
LANGUAGE:
Latin.
FORMAT:
288 x 215 mm.
PAGES:
450 pages.
ILUMINATION:
Decorated with plenty of full color miniatures, big capital letters, etc.
BINDING:
Bound in tool stamped leather over wood.
Interested? Contact us
If you want to know more on this beautiful facsimile, how to admire or acquire it, we will be delighted to attend you.
