Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe

About

Founded as a chapel in the 13th century, the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe was named a royal sanctuary by King Alfonso XI after his victory in the decisive Battle of Rio Salado, which expelled the Moors from Spain. After an extensive rebuilding program, Santa Maria de Guadalupe was one of the most important monasteries in the country for several centuries, serving as the resting place for Henry IV of Castile and his mother, and the site of Christopher Columbus’ first pilgrimage after discovering America. Today, the monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing the Reconquest of the Iberian peninsula, and Columbus' arrival in the New World through exceptional architecture. Marrying 400 years of architectural styles, visitors can enjoy the serenity of both Mudejar cloister and Gothic cloisters before seeking out the treasures in the ornately decorated basilica. Also housed in the monastery is an Embroidery Museum, a library of illuminated books, and an exceptional collection of paintings by Zurbarán. For more information, please visit monasterioguadalupe.com/