This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Landscape, Nature and Architecture

Technological improvements enabled Prince Albert to collect photographs of places that were significant to him

CHARLES CLIFFORD (1819-62)

Photographic Souvenir of Spain vol.I: Apside of the Cathedral, Ávila

1860

Albumen print | 31.0 x 41.5 cm (image) (image) | RCIN 2700083

Photograph of the eastern side of Ávila Cathedral near the Puerta del Paso. The apse functioned as a fortified building within the town walls and is built with two tiers of crenellations. Several buttresses are visible on the roof. Immediately to the left of the apse is a building with a Tympanum and another building beside that with an open balustrade with circular stone decorations. A man is seated on the ground, leaning against the cathedral.
  • Creator(s)

    Charles Clifford (1819-62) (photographer)

  • 31.0 x 41.5 cm (image) (image)

    41.0 x 54.0 cm (page dimensions)

  • 'Apside' of the cathedral, Ávila

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Spain
          • Avila [Spain]
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Architecture
        • Ecclesiastical & religious architecture
          • Cathedrals
        • Architectural design
          • Architectural decoration & motifs
            • Castellation
          • Buttresses
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
        • albums
          • photograph albums