Convento de San Luís

Convento de San Luis - Wikimedia Commons: Josejaviervillalbacalles

Convent of San Luis, a site of cultural interest since 1992

When we walk the Camino de Santiago we not only have the opportunity to discover one of those adventures that will never be erased from our minds, but also to enjoy the possibility of discovering the history of the past. It is a unique journey that allows us to travel back in time until we are transported centuries ago, to constructions of the 15th century.

The different Pilgrims' Routes to Santiago de Compostela allow us to discover magical places, such as the Convent of San Luis. Its history dates back to 1454, when Pope Nicholas V granted the Franciscan priest Juan de la Trecha the Hermitage of La Barquera. Here he had the honour of living alongside friars of the same order. However, 14 years later, these same friars changed their location to a new temple, the convent dedicated to San Luis.

However, at the end of the 15th century and the beginning of the 16th century, the building was completely remodelled. These are the remodelling works that we can still visit today, although most of them are still in ruins.

The historic moment that makes the San Luis convent unique

It should not be overlooked that this convent in San Vicente de la Barquera has a great history behind it that has made it famous in the area. It is a historical event that took place in 1517, when Charles V, on his first visit to Spain, had to visit the convent.

Charles V, coming from Flanders and arriving in Spain to be crowned emperor, spent 23 days in the convent of San Luis. He was accompanied by his entire entourage, who watched over him while he recovered from the illness that afflicted him at the time.

This important historical event has not only given the convent a great story to tell. It has also served to declare this place in 1992 as an Asset of Cultural Interest. Therefore, it is one of those points that all pilgrims should visit during their journey.

The architecture of the convent of San Luis

Although we must book an appointment to visit it, this place is presented as a Gothic style building, its architecture being similar to that found in Franciscan churches. However, what many people highlight is its imposing exterior, between the transept and the nave, where there is a belfry topped with two triangular arrow slits.

The cloister of the church is built on the south side, while the main doorway is located on the north façade. It stands out because its entire construction is made of masonry except for the buttresses and arches. Unfortunately, faults in its construction caused it to fall down over time, although there are still areas that remind us of it and help us to experience its history.