The Royal Monastery of Santa María La Real de Las Huelgas is a fascinating hidden treasure in the charming city of Burgos. This enchanting monastery is a unique place that you must put on your list of places to visit. In addition, it is a perfect place to be enthralled by history and art.
Activity/Place Highlights
When you visit, your experience will begin with two audiovisual projections. One that is exhibited at several specific moments in the Cilla, and another that is a continuous presentation. Also, the exteriors of the monastery are distributed in two differentiated zones called Compasses. The Compass inside and the Compass outside.
The Compass inside
First, the access to this convent reminds us of the structure of a medieval fortification. And, in its walled presence, we welcome a pointed arch that will lead us to various rooms. Finally, this one including the ticket office to request tickets for the guided tour.
The Compass from outside
First, we find the so-called Compass from outside. Here is the Church of the Monastery of Las Huelgas. Furthermore, this temple is a clear example of the Gothic of the thirteenth century.
After collecting the audio-guide system from the ticket office, and having seen the church we move to the next spot. Then, we begin to show the different rooms of the monumental set of the Monastery of Las Huelgas.
It is important to know that it is forbidden to take photos in some of the interior rooms. But, with the exception of the Cloister and part of the exterior.
In the itinerary that will be covered, these are the following points of interest:
- The graves
- The Claustrillas
Also, there are wonderful exhibitions that you will find on the walls with decorative elements of the convent itself. There, you could admire, for example, the remains of Muslim-Spanish polychrome plaster with zoomorphic motifs. In addition, you will observe blazons, ataurique, and lacerías.
- The Chapter Room: place destined to the chair of La Abadesa. Here you will see allusions to the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa with the Banner of Las Navas.
- Museum of Rich Medieval Fabrics: it is an exhibition space with objects and fabrics of the 13th and 14th centuries. Besides, it helps us to move to what was the comfortable life and the customs of the royal people at that time.
How to get there
You have a number of ways to get to Monasterio de las Huelgas from Burgos airport (RGS). The ways to get there are by taxi or bus. Here are the following:
- Taxi: There are a number of taxis outside Burgos airport. The total journey time is about 10 minutes by taxi.
- Bus: You can pick up a bus from Burgos airport. Any bus which goes to Villafria is fine. This is the stop for the museum. In total, this is about 12 minutes.
- Car: If you are driving, follow the road N-120 west into Burgos. The monastery lies just off the road in the city’s western outskirts.
When to go
April through June and September through December are good months in Burgos. Summer can very hot and winter is bitterly cold. The monastery is closed on Mondays.
How long
Allow a couple of hours to half a day for your trip to Monasterio de las Huelgas.
Opening and Closing Hours
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 10:00 – 13:30 & 16:00 – 18:30
- Sundays & Bank Holidays – 10:00 – 13:30 & 16:00 – 15:00
Planning
Please make sure you book your trip at least a day beforehand. As to visit this site you need a guided tour.
Prices
- Guide Tour € 6
- You will need to purchase your ticket via this website – https://entradas.patrimonionacional.es/en-GB/informacion-recinto/18/sta-maria-real-huelgas
Inside Information
Please be aware of the following:
- It is obligatory that you take a guided tour. You won’t be able to turn up on the day so please book in advance.
- The guide, unfortunately, will only be provided in Spanish. You are able to ask questions in English.
- It is important to know that it is forbidden to take photos in some of the interior rooms, with the exception of the Cloister and part of the exterior.
History
A look at its captivating story begins in its construction by King Ferdinand III of Castile in the late 13th century.
Founded in 1187 by King Alfonso VIII and his English Queen Leonor (Eleanor). And, it was originally aired as a retreat for female members of the royal family and aristocracy. Also is a burial place for Castilian monarchs.
In fact, the Monastery of Santa Maria de Las Huelgas de Burgos was really important in the Middle Ages. And for this reason, it became the place chosen for the kings to be named knights and, in addition, crowned.
As can be seen, do not forget your relationship with the ladies of the nobility. Also, your consideration of one of the most important Royal Pantheons in Spain.
Websites
Other Nearby Attractions
When you leave the Monastery of Las Huelgas, you can visit its nearby surroundings. If you are looking for a gastronomic offer, also, you can choose between several restaurants. Their specialty is fish and dry vermouth and drinks prepared with spices such as cinnamon.
Castillo de Burgos
Another place that is worth knowing is the Castle of Burgos, with its medieval walls and its viewpoint. Currently, this place is a very famous research center.
Furthermore, in this space, the streets are dedicated to illustrious poets of the city. Go back and read some of the authors you discover during your walk. Also, visit the bookstores located near the University of Burgos and take some of your books as a souvenir.
Cathedral of Santa María de Burgos
Do not leave the city without visiting the Cathedral of Santa María de Burgos. Besides, this magnificent building was declared a World Heritage Site. And is one of the best exponents of Gothic art in Europe.
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