These types of parchments were validated with wax or lead seals – such as this one – that authenticated their origin and importance as official documents, in this case, a papal bull. These seals, bearing emblems or coats of arms, were a sign of both power and authenticity.

The manufacture of parchment was a laborious process involving cleaning, scraping and drying animal skins for weeks. This artisanal method guaranteed a smooth, durable surface, ideal for writing texts intended to be of great documentary value.

Some parchments were reused by erasing old texts to write new ones, resulting in palimpsests. This reuse of parchments was quite common to save resources, although it was not usual with such important documents as this bull issued by Benedict XIV.

Catalan monasteries kept parchments detailing all manner of donations, privileges and pacts with the Pope, monarchy or nobility. These documents were essential to manage lands and rights and, today, are a key source for understanding the social and economic organization of mediaeval Catalonia.

Vellum, made from the skin of young calves, was thinner and rarer than common parchment. Its use was reserved for illuminated manuscripts or documents of great value, such as this union of the Priory of Sant Genís de Bellera and Lavaix Monastery, which stands out for its exceptional quality and beauty.