Monasterio de San Pelay

The Monasterio de San Pelay is a monastery building beside the Barranco de Sía ravine in the Pyrenees, featuring three apses and a Lombard frieze as decorative elements. The interior is structured by groups of cylindrical columns that connect to a lower area through a vaulted passageway.

The monastery was in operation until the 11th century and was later managed as an outpost of San Juan de la Peña. This transition marked the end of its independence and its new role within a larger monastic network.

The building displays mozarabic characteristics and belongs to the early romanesque style of the region, commonly found in the Alto Gállego mountains. The construction reflects the building tradition that was common in this part of Aragon.

The site is reachable via the GR-15 hiking trail from Biescas, with the route crossing through the ravine and leading to informational panels in several languages. Visitors should come prepared for mountain terrain and bring suitable hiking gear.

A spiral staircase leads down to a hidden lower church tucked beneath the main level. This concealed lower section was a particular feature of early medieval monastery layouts in the region.

Location: Biescas

Architectural style: Mozarabic architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.61140,-0.30250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:05