Nuestra Señora de la Soterraña, Gothic church in Santa María la Real de Nieva, Spain.
Nuestra Señora de la Soterraña is a Gothic church with three naves, a transept, and a rectangular layout oriented toward the east. Throughout the interior, detailed stone carvings embellish the walls and columns, creating a richly decorated space.
Queen Catherine of Lancaster initiated construction in 1393 following the discovery of a wooden statue of Mary found buried near Nieva. This finding led to the establishment of the church as a sacred site dedicated to the Virgin.
The cloister showcases carved scenes depicting medieval crafts, daily routines, and plants from that era. These representations offer insight into how people lived and worked in the 15th century.
QR codes and digital resources are positioned throughout the building to help visitors understand the architecture and historical details at their own pace. This self-guided approach allows you to explore the cloister and naves without feeling rushed.
The church shelters a small cave where the original wooden statue of Mary once rested before being destroyed by fire in the 1800s. This hidden chamber beneath the building remains a quiet reminder of the discovery that led to the church's foundation.
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