Monastery of San Miguel de Escalada

Monasterio de San Miguel de Escalada

Spain's best-preserved Mozarabic church, with elegant 10th-century horseshoe arcades

The Monastery of San Miguel de Escalada was founded in 913 by Christian monks who had moved north from Córdoba, and it is Spain's most completely preserved Mozarabic building. The south gallery is supported by a row of horseshoe arches, and the church interior has three naves separated by horseshoe arches, blending Islamic and Visigothic elements. It lies in the countryside about 25 km east of León and requires a car. Admission is about €2. In winter it is often open only on weekends, so check before setting out.

Opening hours

Tue–Sun ~10:00–14:00 & 16:00–19:00 (shorter in winter)

Mozarabic · Horseshoe arches · Medieval

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