Real Santuario de Montesclaros, Shrine to the Virgin Mary in Valdeprado del Río, Spain.
The Real Santuario de Montesclaros is a shrine to the Virgin Mary situated around 950 meters in elevation in southern Cantabria, surrounded by oak, beech, and hazelnut forests. The site includes convent buildings and religious structures that sit within this wooded mountain setting.
The site shows traces of Christian activity from the 4th century, when Roman soldiers from nearby Juliobriga helped spread Christianity throughout the region. This long religious presence shaped the place over many centuries.
The shrine connects to local traditions where communities gather for two yearly celebrations: the Rose Festival in May and the Proctors' Festival in September. These occasions reflect the long bond between this place and the surrounding villages.
The sanctuary sits in a hilly, forested area with demanding terrain, so warm clothing and sturdy footwear are advisable, especially during rain or cooler months. Reaching out to the shrine beforehand helps with planning your visit and exploring available lodging options in the area.
The shrine houses two sarcophagi of Knights from the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, including Martin Fernández, who was buried in 1385. These tombs connect the site to medieval order history and show the place's importance during that era.
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