MONASTERIO SAN SALVADOR DE LEYRE

Defended by the limestone ridges of the sierra, this magnificent 11th century monastery houses a large Romanesque church of harmonious proportions. Abandoned, the Cistercians transformed it in the 13th century. Abandoned again, it has been occupied since 1954 by Benedictines from Silos. Some legends are associated with this temple, such as that of the abbot of San Virila who, it is said, remained in a state of ecstasy for 300 years after hearing the song of a bird.

Perched at 771 meters above sea level, the monastery overlooks the lake of Yesa. The visit is concentrated around the church and the crypt, the rest of the buildings being occupied by the Hospedería, the restaurant and the monks' facilities. Before entering the church, don't miss the harmonious 12th-century portal, or Porta Speciosa, whose capitals and tympanums are full of symbolism. Inside, the eleventh-century chevet was designed in the purest Romanesque style, while the nave displays a Gothic style. On the north side, nestled in a recess and closed by a gate, is the pantheon of the first kings of Navarre. On the south side, one can admire a beautiful Romanesque portal from the 12th century, which opens onto a small chapel with a magnificent altarpiece. The visit continues in the 11th century crypt, the real jewel of this monastery, which contains capitals of various styles and forms. On the way out, two very pleasant itineraries allow you to explore the surroundings.