Originally dedicated to Saint Andrew, it was refurbished in 1776, destroying part of its original structure, although the apse and other isolated elements such were retained.[4] The last mayor works in the basilica took place after the partial collapse of the vault in 1961.[5] Despite the 1776 reform, it is considered one of the most important examples of medieval art in Álava. It was declared Bien de Interés Cultural in 1931[6] and Basque Cultural Heritage in 2012.[7]
Architecture
Built with a Latin cross layout, the vaults over the apse and crossing of its two arms are of special interest. The bases of the arches of the second of these vaults contain four sculptures of the evangelists. The capitals of the church are decorated with plant and animal motifs, as well as battle scenes between horsemen and centaurs. Its atrium contains the remains of the original portico. After being dismantled, stones from the portico were embedded in the walls in a disorderly fashion: the tympanum of the Lamb and that of Christ with the Apostles and the bas-reliefs of the Harrowing of Hell and the Sepulchre of Jesus, which represents one of the best Romanesque sculptural groups in the Basque Country.[citation needed]
The Basilica contains the image of San Prudencio,[citation needed] Bishop of Tarazona and patron saint of Álava from 1644, who according to tradition was born in Armentia. On April 28 each year, a procession and open-air festival are held on the meadows that surround the church in his honor.[8]
