The Monasteries Route
La Rioja has always been a favourite place for spiritual retreats, and for this reason numerous monasteries were built here centuries ago. But these buildings were not only religious, but also cultural centres. Thus, in the monasteries of San Millán de la Cogolla (Yuso and Suso) the first written testimonies in Spanish were made. The monasteries of La Rioja, apart from being located in unbeatable landscape, hide outstandingly beautiful corners and priceless cultural treasures.
A visit to the monasteries of Suso and Yuso, cradle of Spanish and the main centre of cultural tourism in La Rioja, is a must. They were declared World Heritage Sites in 1997
The monastery of Santa María La Real, Nájera, especially the tracery in the cloister, the tombs of the Kings of Navarre-Nájera and the grotto that can be found inside the church which hides an image of the Virgin.
Nuestra Señora de la Piedad Monastery (Casalarreina), - today run by Dominican nuns.
Nuestra Señora de la Asunción Monastery (Santo Domingo de la Calzada). - founded by Don Pedro Manso de Zúñiga, Archbishop of the Diocese of Calahorra and la Calzada.
The monastery of Our Lady of Valvanera, Anguiano. In honour of the Virgin of Valvanera, Patron of La Rioja, a very ancient sculpture of whom can still be seen.
