Abbey of Santo Domingo de Silos, Benedictine abbey in Santo Domingo de Silos, Spain
Santo Domingo de Silos is a Benedictine abbey in the village of Santo Domingo de Silos, known for its Romanesque cloister. The two-story cloister features 64 carved stone capitals depicting biblical scenes, saints' lives, and mythical creatures, all shaped by medieval stonemasons.
A monastic community existed here from the 7th century until Moorish forces destroyed it in the 10th century. Saint Dominic of Silos rebuilt the site beginning in 1041 and established a Benedictine community that continues today.
The monks who live here continue their daily routine of singing the Divine Office in Gregorian chant within the abbey church. Visitors can attend these services or listen from the nave as the vaulted ceiling carries the voices through the space.
The abbey opens most days for visitors wishing to see the cloister and some public areas. Comfortable shoes help when walking over medieval stone floors, and quiet times should be respected when monks are at prayer.
The monastery's old pharmacy preserves hundreds of ceramic jars and glass bottles that once held herbal remedies for sick monks and villagers. This collection shows the Benedictine medical practice over several centuries.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
