Central Tympanum: Mission of the Apostles

Image: Central Tympanum: Mission of the Apostles

The central tympanum in the narthex, depicting Pentecost or the Mission of the Apostles. In the center is Christ, inside a mandorla (almond-shaped halo). Bolts of lightning (or rays of light) shoot out from Christ's hands and hit the apostles in the heads. The inner archivolt and the lintel below are populated with the peoples of the world who will hear the message of Christ. These include, on the lintel, the "Monstrous Races" of foreign lands. This provides a fascinating insight into the medieval worldview and popular legends of the time.

More info: www.sacred-destinations.com/france/vezelay-basilica.htm

More photos: www.sacred-destinations.com/france/vezelay-basilica-photo...

by Holly Hayes
on May 28, 2008

ID
157718
Title
Central Tympanum: Mission of the Apostles
credit
Holly Hayes
edited by
5
Location
p
Resolution
1280 x 853 px (1 MP)
Camera
Canon EOS 400D DIGITAL
focal length
54mm
Date Taken
May 28, 2008
Date Added
August 10, 2023
Last Updated
February 20, 2026