Monastery of the congregation of Cistercian nuns of San Bernardo, founded in 1189 by King Alfonso VIII of Castile. It houses valuable works, including some of the oldest stained glass windows in Spain.

Conceived as a royal pantheon and retreat for women of nobility and aristocracy, the Monastery of Santa María la Real de las Huelgas accumulated immense wealth and numerous privileges. It was founded by King Alfonso VIII and his wife Leonor de Plantagenet in the 12th century and belongs to the Cistercian Order.

Although the monastery's architecture is Cistercian in style, it alternates elements of different artistic styles such as the beautiful Romanesque cloister known as the Claustrillas or the Mudejar chapel of Santiago. Also remarkable is its collection of textiles displayed in the Museum of Rich Fabrics, originating from the monastery's tombs and magnificently exhibited in what used to be the monastery's old granary. Additionally, the museum houses the banner of the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa, which is paraded on the day of 'Curpillos.'

It is definitely worth visiting this unique monastery and taking a stroll through the surrounding neighborhood to immerse oneself in the tranquil medieval atmosphere that envelops it. Although it is a bit far from the historic center, the monastery can be easily reached on foot. All visits to the monastery are guided tours lasting approximately one hour.

Did you know... Although the name of the monastery has traditionally been associated with the verb 'holgar' (a place of rest or leisure), it seems more likely that etymologically it comes from the word 'olca' or 'olga,' which in the Middle Ages referred to uncultivated land used for grazing livestock.