Have Heart, Will Travel

legends

Memory Monday: Legend of the Rose Window

Memory MondayNancyComment

Since today is Texas Independence Day, it seems fitting that today's Memory Monday post is from a Texas Adventure!  (Note: Yes, many people around here--we are based in Texas--have wished each other Happy Independence Day and there is much Texan-rejoicing in the land!) One year ago this month, we found ourselves in San Antonio, Texas. It is a beautiful city full of history and so much to do! We took a little time in our trip to visit several of the historic missions.

wpid-20140313_165250.jpg

While giving ourselves a self-guided tour, I began to overhear one of the official guides talking to a group and the story really caught my attention.  They were standing in front of a uniquely ornate and lovely window, apparently the centerpiece of the drama.

The Rose Window. Pretty outstanding for something carved in 1775 on a deserted mission, isn't it?

I so enjoyed listening to the history  legend of the Rose Window, that I had to come back and do some reading for myself.  According to who you believe, one version of the story goes like this:

"In the most elaborate version, a noted Spanish sculptor named Pedro Huizar, charged with carving a religious window at San José, instead used his considerable talent to carve a monument to his lovely sweetheart, Rosa. When the window was complete, he sent for his love—who died in a shipwreck on her way to New Spain. Huizar spent the rest of his life celibate and penitent, carving the religious portal above the entrance to the church."

from Texas Monthly, February 1987

wpid-20140313_163719.jpgWhat do you think?wpid-20140313_163259.jpg


-------------

For those of you who were most excited about celebrating Texas Independence Day, check out these t-shirts!  Cute!