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: Doorway, Basilica of San Isidoro

1858

Albumen print | 41.0 x 32.0 cm (image) (image) | RCIN 2700057

Photograph of the Basilica of San Isidoro in León, Spain. The image shows a blocked door within a recess decorated with Romanesque sculpture. Above the portal is a relief carving and either side of this are two figures also in relief. At the top of the photograph are three Gothic arches supported by Romanesque columns.

  • Creator(s)

    Charles Clifford (1819-62) (photographer)

  • 41.0 x 32.0 cm (image) (image)

    41.0 x 54.0 cm (page dimensions)

  • Basilica of San Isidoro, León

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Spain
          • Leon [Spain]
            • Basilica of San Isidoro [Leon]
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Architecture
        • Ecclesiastical & religious architecture
          • Basilicas
        • Gothic architecture
        • Architectural history
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Construction
        • Structural parts of buildings
          • Doors
          • Doorways
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
        • albums
          • photograph albums