Burgos, An Ancient Monastery, May 31, 2026

Posted on by Pete Schloss

Tomorrow Christine and the three grandchildren depart for their adventure. Charlie and I depart for ours. Two different experiences, two different directions, each an adventure nonetheless. I will not see Christine for nearly a month and I will miss her dearly. I have decided that any future posts from this Camino will return to the “Dear Christine” format.

But that is tomorrow and today is today. Charlie and I toured the ancient and magnificent Monasterio de Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas.

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In 1187 the Pope authorized its establishment. In that same year King Alfonso VIII and Queen Eleanor granted the monasteries charter. The monastery is also their final resting place. 

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It stands today as an ancient monument surrounded by a modern city.

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Into the 16th century the Abbess was afforded near regal authority over a domain that covered over 50 towns and villages.

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Until the Council of Trent in the 16th century she was authorized to hear confessions, give absolution, and perform many of the duties now reserved solely to priests.

The monastery, once home to hundreds of cloisterednuns, now houses 10 nuns and approximately 22 women in formation to become nuns.

I took over 50 photographs, but I’m constrained to sharing only a few. I hope they give the flavor of the experience of our visit:

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Here is where the Abbass conducted meetings with the remaining nuns in residence. They voted on pending issues and received instructions from her. The stained glass windows which are barely visible in this picture are the oldest in the country of Spain. They date to the 12th century. Modern science has yet to figure out how the red panes were created 
Another view of the meeting chamber.
One of the two main crypt rooms reserved for royalty and their children. Napoleon‘s troops looted these sarcophagi in the 18th century. 
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One of a number of paintings from the 1500s magnificently restored to their vibrance and beauty. 
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One of the interior cloisters.

Walk back to the center of the city included passage along the tree line pedestrian ways.

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A brief clip from an incredible street performance.

Buen Camino and Peace Everyone. Pete.

7 thoughts on “Burgos, An Ancient Monastery, May 31, 2026”

  1. Keith says:

    Pete & Chris,

    We are, once again, vicariously enjoying your travel destinations! It’s so cool that you can share these adventures with your grandchildren. I have always believed that travel and the opportunity for young adults to experience a world beyond their usual environment is one of the best benefits and advantages that parents (grandparents in this case) can give.

    Tell Charlie that Helena & Keith say hello. It is only with this round of posts that I realized that we know your neighbor and travelling companion. You are in good company.

    Peace and Safe Travels, Keith

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