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The Monastery of San Salvador de Leyre, known in the original Basque as Leireko San Salbatore Monasterioa, is located south of the Sierra de Leyre in northern Navarre, Spain. It is one of the most important historical monasteries in Spain, with a history dating back to 842.
The earliest records of the monastery indicate a donation by the first king of Pamplona, Íñigo Arista, and the then bishop of Pamplona, Wilesindo. Over the centuries, as is often the case with these monastic powerhouses, Leyre amassed considerable property and wealth, thanks to the privileges and donations it received from the kings of Navarre. Its influence and importance grew, leading to significant expansions in the 12th century. The monastery was also the final resting place of several kings of Navarre.
Throughout its long history, the Monastery of Leyre has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, the most extensive of which occurred in the 16th century, when the site was almost completely rebuilt. But despite these changes, original Romanesque architectural elements have been carefully preserved, including the church with its Porta Speciosa and the remarkable crypt, which is even older.
A heritage that continues
Originally a Benedictine institution, the monastery was later taken over by the Cistercians. Today it is under the care of the Charterhouse of Navarre, which returned it to the Benedictine Order. The monks continue to maintain and run the monastery, preserving its spiritual and historical heritage.
Located on one of the many routes of the Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela, the Monastery of Leyre remains an important place for pilgrims and visitors. Its historical importance is also seen in the legendary Leyre Casket, an ornate ivory box made in 1005 in (then) Muslim Cordoba, containing the relics of Sts. Nunio and Alodio, which remained in the monastery for several centuries.
The Monastery of Leyre is clearly a testament to the rich monastic heritage and history of Navarre, and of Spain as a whole, inspiring reverence in all who visit it.
