Santa María la Real de las Huelgas, Cistercian monastery in Valladolid, Spain
Santa María la Real de las Huelgas is a Cistercian monastery in Valladolid featuring a single-nave church with barrel vaults and a dome at the transept crossing. The complex includes supporting buildings, cloisters, and artworks spanning multiple centuries.
Queen María de Molina donated her palace in 1282 to establish this monastery for the Cistercian order to implement their ideals. The complex suffered damage during conflicts with King Alfonso XI in 1328.
The church displays works by Gregorio Fernández, showing the skill of Spanish baroque sculpture, while the 1706 organ built by Juan Casado Valdivieso contributes to the visual and sonic character of the interior. These artistic elements reflect the religious and aesthetic values of their era.
An active community of Cistercian nuns maintains the monastery and continues their daily traditions within its walls. Visiting hours may vary due to the community's schedule, so it is best to check ahead before planning a trip.
The entrance gate displays Mudéjar style architecture, representing one of the few remaining examples of this design approach in Valladolid. This gateway blends Islamic and Christian medieval elements in a distinctive way.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
