Roberto Frassinelli

Description

Roberto Frassinelli (1811–1887) was born in Ludwisburg, Germany, and studied subjects related to botany, zoology, and anatomy at the University of Tübingen from 1831 to 1833. During his time as a student, he joined secret societies associated with Romanticism, such as the Gesellschaft der Feurreiter and the Society of the Fire Riders. Inspired by the spirit of the times, Frassinelli took part in the political uprisings in Frankfurt, for which he was convicted in Germany. This situation prompted him to leave the country and set off for Spain, where he worked as a dealer for German antique dealers and bibliophiles. His romantic inclinations led him to Asturias in 1844, and after marrying Ramona Dominga Díaz, he moved in 1854 to Corao, a town near Covadonga. Although he was not an architect, he produced the designs for the Basilica of Santa María la Real in Covadonga and oversaw the construction of the crypt. It is difficult to pinpoint the exact location where the works he handled were found, since he moved between various cities in Germany and Spain. Therefore, it is necessary to refer to the specific details provided in the history of the object.

Bibliography

• BOYD, Carolyn (2006): "La construcción de la identidad regional en Europa y España (siglos XIX y XX)", nº 64, Ayer.
• MORALES, María Cruz y MULLER, Ana (1987): Roberto Frassinelli, el alemán de Corao Asturias 1845-1887, Silverio Cañada, Gijón.