Monastery of Santa Cruz la Real, Segovia, Dominican convent in Segovia, Spain
Description
The Monastery of Santa Cruz la Real is a former Dominican convent featuring a Gothic Hispanic-Flemish church entrance. The building contains a single-nave church with ribbed vaulting that runs throughout the structure.
History
The monastery was founded in 1218 by Saint Dominic de Guzman and served as the first Dominican friary community in Spain during the medieval period. The complex was later shaped by the Catholic Monarchs and underwent significant modifications.
Culture
Wooden sculptures inside depict Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand in prayer, showing how closely the Spanish monarchy and the church were linked. These artworks give visitors a sense of the importance faith held for rulers of that time.
Practical
The complex now serves as the main campus of IE University in central Segovia, which means some areas have limited public access. Visitors should check in advance to learn which sections are open to view and when is best to visit.
Did you know?
A cave dedicated to Santo Domingo within the monastery complex features a decorated entrance and ribbed vaulting from the Catholic Monarchs period. This hidden sanctuary reveals how believers carved sacred spaces into the stone itself.
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