Spain is a country with many places worth visiting, one of them is the province of Burgos, which has a beautiful town called Covarrubias, also known as Villa Rachela, thanks to the beauty of the women who live there. However, in this article we want to talk about Covarrubias and the Ruins of San Pedro de Arlanza, so if you are planning a trip to that region, make sure you visit these amazing places.
Covarrubias is a place that seems to be taken from a story book, and at the same time it has unique stories and legends. It is so beautiful that it has been included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Spain. In addition, it was declared a National Historic-Artistic Complex in 1965.
If you decide to take a walk through the streets of Covarrubias, you will find a variety of spaces classified as a well of cultural interest (BIC). It is easy to go around the town, starting from its historic center. You can also enjoy its beautiful gardens and the delicious cherries there. In general, there is a lot to do in the town, such as visiting the spectacular monuments and enjoying the architecture.
Undoubtedly, one of the favourite places in Covarrubias are the ruins of San Pedro de Arlanza, located eight kilometers from the town. The monastery was built on the remains of a Roman villa and its origin is related to the hermitage of San Pelayo, next to it, located in a strategic place, inhabited since prehistory.
The building has areas that go from the Romanesque period to the seventeenth century. Likewise, you can see monastic dependencies, the chapter house, two cloisters and the church, all of which are in the process of being restored, but in some areas, little can be done.
On the facade of the Monastery of San Pedro de Arlanza, you will see that in the entrance door there is an equestrian statue of Fernán González defeating the Saracen enemy. In front of the Cover is the arch to enter the monasterial enclosure, and a deposit with a fountain, which received water from a distant spring through a Roman channel.
Past the entrance, you will see a series of dependencies and you will reach the first cloister, which has a huge Pinsapo, a tree that is not usual in the area, 25-30 meters high, planted no more than 100 years ago. Some fear that its size may affect the monastery, since it leaves it almost in the dark, giving it a mysterious aspect.
What stands out in Covarrubias and the ruins of San Pedro de Arlanza are the remains of the monumental Romanesque church of the year 1080, its structure and part of the impressive pillars that supported its vaults. Also, they emphasize the three semicircular apses, with wide presbyteries, you can also see some windows and even the rosette. In short, there is a lot of history in this construction and many mysteries, so if you decide to travel to Burgos, you cannot miss the monastery.
ALFA