View this work and more in our dedicated Online Viewing Room for Markus Brunetti's series FACADES:
Santiago de Compostela, Catedral (2009-2024) took Markus Brunetti fifteen years to create and depicts the distinctive Baroque western facade of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. This piece marks a significant milestone for the artist as it is the 100th completed and published work in the FACADES series.
Located in Galicia, in northwestern Spain — the rainiest and windiest region of the Iberian Peninsula, this project faced unique challenges due to the area's unpredictable weather. Known for its sudden shifts between sunshine and overcast skies — often with heavy rain, these conditions impacted how the cathedral’s façade appeared. Documenting a façade requires patience, as the artist waits for ideal lighting and weather to capture the essence of these historic structures. Careful planning was essential to photograph the façade in its best light, as wet sandstone can appear darker and less vibrant. Photographs taken in overcast conditions were crucial to showcasing the design without the interference of fleeting sunlight or the dulling effect of rain-soaked surfaces.
Click here to view a detail video of the framed work.