A hidden history in the Burgos Cathedral (Spain): virtual reconstruction of the lighting effects generated in the 15th century Chapel of the Conception or Saint Anne

Virtual reconstruction reveals that the 15th-century Chapel of the Conception in Burgos Cathedral (Spain) generated 'miracles of light'—special lighting effects visible at solstices or equinoxes—similar to those documented in nearby medieval churches. These phenomena, linked to the architectural style of the 'taller de los Colonia,' were likely obscured after the 18th-century construction of the Chapel of Santa Tecla. Using solar simulation software, researchers analyzed the chapel's design and methods behind these effects, offering new insights into the sophistication of medieval architectural engineering.

Uson Guardiola, E., Gárate Alcalde, J. A., Jørgensen-Mínguez, V., & Espuny Camacho, E. (2025). A hidden history in the Burgos Cathedral (Spain): virtual reconstruction of the lighting effects generated in the 15th century Chapel of the Conception or Saint Anne. Architectus, (2(82)). https://doi.org/10.37190/arc250203