Santa María de Cardet, Romanesque church in la Vall de Boí, Spain.
Santa María de Cardet is a Romanesque church built on a steep mountain slope with a single nave covered by four groin vault sections and a semi-circular apse. The structure adapts to the uneven terrain, creating a distinctive vertical design.
Construction began in the 11th century, with significant reforms following a nave collapse in the 12th century and Baroque modifications added in the 17th century. These renovations shaped the building's appearance across different historical periods.
The church displays a replica of a 13th-century altar front depicting scenes from the Virgin Mary's life, with the original preserved in the National Art Museum of Catalonia. This shows how the artistic value of the site extended beyond the valley itself.
The church sits at a steep elevation and requires a moderate uphill walk to reach, though the path is marked and accessible for most visitors. There is minimal shade along the way, so it is best to visit during cooler times or bring protective gear in warmer months.
This church is the only one in Vall de Boí to feature a crypt, ingeniously incorporated into the uneven terrain beneath the apse. This underground chamber is a rare feature among the valley's churches and demonstrates a unique construction approach.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
