Hermitage of La Monjía, Romanesque hermitage church in Fuentetoba, Spain
The Hermitage of La Monjía is a church structure combining Romanesque and Gothic features, positioned on the southern slope of Pico Frentes near the source of the Golmayo river. The building displays three concentric entrance arches and pointed arches in the apse, with two levels visible: a ground floor for storage and an upper floor for living quarters.
This hermitage was founded in the 11th century by Benedictine monks from Valvanera to serve as a base for livestock operations. The property passed to private ownership in the early 1500s and eventually came under the control of the Counts of Castejón.
The chapel blends Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, revealing how building techniques evolved across different periods. Visitors can observe these layered styles in the arches and walls, showing the evolution of the place over centuries.
The hermitage sits on a hillside location, so expect some walking to reach the building from nearby areas. Wearing proper footwear is advisable, and checking weather conditions beforehand helps ensure safe access and good visibility of the structure.
The building served dual purposes with distinct levels: the lower level housed grain storage and management functions, while the upper floor provided living quarters for resident monks. This layout demonstrates how religious and practical functions were integrated within a single structure.
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