Monastery of Bidaurreta, Gothic-Renaissance monastery in Oñati, Spain
The Monastery of Bidaurreta is a building complex with a church designed in Latin Cross form and a single nave showing features from two distinct building periods. Two different altarpieces document the architectural changes that occurred over time.
The monastery was founded between 1510 and 1520 by Juan Lopez de Lazarraga, a senior official of the Catholic Monarchs. Its construction reflects the architectural evolution from the late medieval period to the early modern age.
The monastery is home to a community of Poor Clare nuns who practice their faith within these walls and maintain the space as a center of prayer. Their daily routines shape the rhythm of the place today.
The site is best explored with proper footwear, as the stone surfaces and stairs can be uneven. Access is through the town of Oñati, and the local tourism office can help arrange visits.
Within the monastery walls, researchers discovered in 2008 an architectural drawing from the 16th century that matched the original design plans of Seville Cathedral. This finding reveals connections between major construction projects of that era.
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