Monastery of Bonaval, Cistercian monastery in Retiendas, Spain.
The Monastery of Bonaval is a Cistercian monastery in the province of Guadalajara that shows typical features of this style, including clean lines and functional spaces. The remains suggest a simple yet organized building complex where different functions were arranged in separate structures.
The monastery was founded in 1168 and placed under the supervision of Valbuena Abbey, which connected it to a larger network of religious institutions. It operated until 1495, after which the buildings began to gradually decline.
The monastery reflects how monks lived at this remote location, with spaces designed for simple living and prayer. The arrangement of buildings shows the religious order that Cistercians maintained in their communities.
The site is relatively remote and best reached by car, as it sits in a rural area. There are few facilities on site, so bring water and wear appropriate shoes for walking on uneven ground.
The monastery features a well-preserved sundial that shows how monks structured their daily routines and tracked time without modern devices. This rare feature reveals the everyday practices of the medieval religious community.
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