The Monastery of Leyre, the origin of the kingdom of Navarre

At the foot of the Sierra de Leyre mountain range and overlooking the Yesa reservoir , the Monastery of San Salvador de Leyre is one of the most important monumental gems in northern Spain. Founded in the 9th century, it was a religious and political center in the early days of the Kingdom of Navarre and the final resting place of several of its early monarchs.

Its setting is already a marvel , nestled among forests, on a high ground overlooking part of the area. This imposing monastery blends perfectly with a very special atmosphere.

"Center and heart of my Kingdom"

"The center and heart of my kingdom." This is how King Sancho III described it, who reigned during one of Navarre's greatest periods of splendor, demonstrating the importance of this religious center in the kingdom's history. But, in addition to its spiritual and historical value, Leyre also stands out for its artistic value .

There are already documents that speak of it in the 9th century and, after more than 10 centuries of existence, the monastery is still inhabited by a community of Benedictine monks , making it clear that Leyre continues to expand its history.

An art book

Crossing its doors means entering an architectural complex that brings together centuries of art. From the pre-Romanesque crypt , considered one of the oldest and best preserved in the peninsula, to the Romanesque church with its imposing chevet, the cloister, and the Porta Speciosa portico , carved with scenes that blend the sacred with legend. Each stone seems to tell a story, from the columns that support the crypt to the vaults that rise in the main nave, charged with symbolism, especially due to the play of light as it filters through the small Romanesque windows.

Its location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the Navarrese Pre-Pyrenees . Nearby are Javier Castle , the birthplace of the patron saint of Navarre; the Aragonese Way of St. James , which runs just a few kilometers away; and the charming towns of Sangüesa and Sos del Rey Católico (also in Aragon and steeped in history and symbolism). The Yesa Reservoir, known as the "Sea of ​​the Pyrenees," is another important attraction, especially in summer.