Rueda Abbey, Cistercian monastery in Sástago, Spain.
Rueda Abbey is a Cistercian monastery in Sástago situated along the Ebro River, featuring Gothic cloisters, a church, and a Mudejar tower enclosed within stone walls. The restored medieval buildings now house a four-star hotel alongside the religious spaces.
Construction began in 1202 when King Alfonso II granted land to Cistercian monks, with the church consecrated in 1238. The monastery grew into an important religious and economic center throughout the medieval period.
The monastery reflects Cistercian principles through its simple, purposeful design where every space served the monks' spiritual and daily needs. The arrangement of church, sleeping quarters, dining hall, and work areas shows how religious community life was organized centuries ago.
Visitors can explore the site through guided tours arranged via Aragón tourism services. The restored buildings include accommodations, so you can stay overnight within the monastery complex if you wish.
A water wheel system spanning approximately 20 feet (6 meters) in diameter drew water from the Ebro River to supply the buildings and fields. This engineering solution was essential for the monks' agricultural operations and daily needs.
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