Estavan todas no coro e ben cantand’ e Leendo» Tipologie e funzioni dei cori nei monasteri delle Domenicane dal XIII al XVI secolo, con particolare riferimento alla Castiglia

Abstract

This article proposes a study on the layout and functions of nuns’ choirs in the Dominican nunneries in Castile. The diversity of solutions in the location of the nuns’ choir, so far unknown, allows comparisons with other geographical areas – mainly Italy and Germany –, as well as with other religious orders. We find commonalities between them, but also some Castilian specificities. The architectural solutions are determined not only by the observance of enclosure – when observed – but also by the devotion to Corpus Christi. They are also a consequence of the development of some special liturgies and paraliturgies in each nunnery, closely related with the shaping of collective memory, and of the intervention of some founders.