Claustro de los Caballeros

Claustro de los Caballeros | Wikicommons. Autor: Jose Luis Filpo Cabana

Romanesque treasures: Exploring history in the Cloister of the Knights

Located in Nájera, La Rioja, the Cloister of the Knights is part of the Monastery of Santa María la Real, also known as the Monastery of Nájera. The place is part of the monastic complex founded in the 11th century by García Sánchez III of Navarra. Over the centuries, the monastery has undergone various renovations and the cloister has witnessed historical events. 

The building presents a Romanesque style architecture, typical of the era in which it was built. Romanesque architectural elements, such as semicircular arches and decorated columns, are characteristic of this cloister.

The Cloister of the Knights is known for its sculpted capitals, representing biblical scenes, human figures and animals. These sculptures are an outstanding example of Romanesque art in the region. Originally, the cloister served religious functions and was used by monks for prayer and meditation. Its design reflects the importance of these spaces in monastic life.

Over the years, the Cloister of the Knights has undergone restorations to preserve its structure and the works of art it houses. These efforts seek to maintain the authenticity of the site. Currently the cloister is accessible to visitors and tourists who wish to explore the historical and artistic wealth of the Monastery of Santa María la Real. Visits usually include explanations about the history and architecture of the cloister. 

Both the Monastery of Santa María la Real and its Cloister of the Knights are cultural heritage of great relevance in La Rioja, contributing to the knowledge of the religious and artistic history of the region.

Winter schedule

• Tuesday to Saturday: 10am to 1pm / 4pm to 5:30pm
• Sundays and holidays: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. / 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Summer time

• Tuesday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. / 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sundays and holidays: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. / 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.