Gazing upon this imposing figure, we encounter the Eurico Statue. It stands proudly in Madrid’s Plaza de Oriente. The Eurico Statue depicts Euric, the Visigothic king who reigned from 466 to 484 AD. He is a pivotal figure in Spanish history. Euric is considered the true founder of the Visigothic state. The Eurico Statue captures his regal presence. He holds a scepter in his right hand. His left hand holds a shield. The shield bears the image of his wife. The statue itself is a masterpiece crafted from white stone. It was sculpted by Juan Porcel between 1750 and 1753. Originally, the Eurico Statue was part of a larger series. These statues adorned the Royal Palace’s exterior. This project was envisioned by Benedictine monk Martín Sarmiento in 1743. Imagine the palace, once lined with over a hundred such figures. Over time, these statues were moved. Many found new homes in locations like Retiro Park and the Army Museum. The Eurico Statue now stands in the Plaza de Oriente. It shares the space with another Visigothic king, Ataulfo. A simple granite bench sits between the two statues. Look closely at the statue’s base. You’ll find an inscription. It reads “EURICO / Mª Aª DE 484”. This commemorates Euric and his era. The Eurico Statue is more than just a sculpture. It is a window into Spain’s rich Visigothic past. The statue reminds us of Euric’s significant contribution to the formation of the Spanish state.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to