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  • Essay / Saint-Sernin - 537

    One of the most famous pilgrimage churches from the Romanesque period is Saint-Sernin in Toulouse, France. Saint-Sernin was a faithful Christian church and many Christian pilgrims flocked to the church to see the site where Saint Peter was crucified. The Middle Ages were not a time of safe and easy travel; therefore, pilgrims had to deal with severe storms, thieves, and perhaps even travel in groups to reduce the chance of trouble. The journey took months and a large amount of money had to be spent on this trip. Those who visited the church during their journey would stop to pray and/or meditate. The church used many important artistic styles, but one of the most important was that of the Romans, but their faith was different. Saint-Sernin received so many visitors: painters, sculptors and even courtiers; this led to a new, larger church. Saint-Sernin was built in honor of Saint Saturnin, first bishop of Toulouse, after he was killed by pagan priests. According to online sources, Saint Saturninus was martyred in 250 CE, his feet were bound....