Monastery of Santa Maria, El Puig, Gothic monastery in El Puig de Santa Maria, Spain.
The Monastery of Santa Maria is a Gothic structure in El Puig de Santa Maria composed of two distinct sections with four defensive towers positioned at each corner of the main complex. The towers once served as defensive elements for the entire site.
King James I ordered the construction of the original church in 1237 to mark the victory over Muslim forces during the conquest of Valencia. The building was later expanded into the Gothic complex visible today.
The cloisters display paintings by José Vergara and Espinosa that show Spanish religious art from the 18th century. These works shape how the courtyards look today and reflect the artistic richness of that period.
Visitors should contact the site in advance to arrange guided tours of the premises. Booking ahead by phone or email ensures smooth access and makes the most of the visit.
A Byzantine icon of Our Lady of Angels discovered beneath a fallen bell became the catalyst for transforming the original church into the current Gothic structure. This discovery marked a turning point in the site's importance.
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