The Cantigas de Santa Maria

The Cantigas de Santa Maria is a collection of 420 songs from the 13th century, written in medieval Spanish, celebrating the Virgin Mary. Commissioned by King Alfonso X of Castile, these cantigas blend religious devotion with stories of miracles attributed to Mary. Each song typically features a narrative that illustrates her compassionate intervention in people's lives. The work is significant not only for its spiritual content but also for its insights into medieval culture, music, and language. The beautifully illustrated manuscripts highlight the importance of Mary in the lives of people during that era.