Galluspforte

The north facade of the Münster

The Galluspforte is the most impressive feature of the Basel Minster and the oldest Roman portal in the German-speaking world. It dates back to the 12th century and is located on the north facade of the Minster. It is made of red sandstone and has been restored in different phases from 1597 onwards.

Galluspforte

The Galluspforte has a relief of Jesus Christ as a world judge (on the tympanum). Below, the parable of the ten virgins is depicted (Gospel according to Matthew): on the right, the five foolish virgins are shown, whereas the five wise virgins are depicted on the left. In the middle, one can see Jesus lifting up his hand and blessing the virgings to the left. You can also find dragons, lions, and eagles on the capitals; these animals were viewed as guardians. Furthermore, there are four statues beside the bronze door. They depict the Four Evangelists: Matthew and John to the left, and Mark and Luke to the right.

This portal is a good example of Romanesque art, since it has many characteristic features: round arches, reliefs, and the arrangement of the sculptures' folds. It truly is worth a closer look. 

Thanks for reading!

Laura

References
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galluspforte
http://www.baselinsider.ch/enzyklopaedie/aus-der-geschichte/aus-dem-atlen-basel/basels-kluge-und-toerichte-jungfrauen.html

Photo credit
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galluspforte#/media/File:Galluspforte_des_Basler_Muensters_ws.jpg