Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe, Spain

Santa Maria de Guadalupe is considered one of the most beautiful and interesting monasteries to visit in Spain. This royal monastery is located in the province of Caceres. King Alfonso XI is considered its founder. Construction of the monastery began on the site of the old chapel in 1340. According to one legend, the statue of the Virgin Mary was discovered in the ruins of an old dilapidated chapel. The locals considered her one of their main patrons.

They regarded this discovery as a good sign. The monastery was built in honor of Saint Mary soon. It continues to impress with its greatness even today. The Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe has had the status of an important educational and social center since its construction. Three hospitals, a pharmacy, a school of medicine, and a huge library were opened in the monastery. From an architectural point of view, it is notable for combining elements of a wide variety of architectural styles that have taken place in the last 500 years.

The monastery was one of the richest in the country during the Middle Ages. Unique religious relics were kept in it. The burial of noble royals took place on the territory of the monastery. It lost almost all its valuables in the early 19th century. It was sacked by Napoleon's army and partially destroyed. The building was completely restored by the beginning of the 20th century. Franciscan monks took an active part in its restoration. The Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe was recognized as a cultural monument of world significance in 1993. Next - Llotja de la Seda