Trip #4 (Part I) - SANTO DOMINGO DE SILOS - DESFILADERO DE LA YECLA

So, we set out on our adventure to the north of Spain. Our first stop was Santo Domingo de Silos. We visited the monastery there (which is fabulous) and attended a mass to hear the monks sing (Gregorian Chant).

Construction on the monastery began in the 11th century. The jewels of the cloister are the sculptures representing the life of Christ and other significant events. These panels are located at each corner

Left, Christ's Ascension; Right, The Day of Pentacost

Left, The Descent from the Cross; Right, The Road to Emmaus

Left, Doubting Thomas; Right, The Crowning of the Virgin Mary

The columns of the cloister are unique, each one being distinct both in its capital and in its form. Here are some examples:

One of the particularly interesting columns is the twisted ones. Here is one that shows four columns spiraling. These pieces are carved from a single piece of stone.

The ceiling offers an interesting contrast to the purpose of the locale. Aside from the usual religious figures are representations of daily life of those who lived in the town.

Here are some examples:

All of these examples are located on the beams that hold up the upper cloister. I like how it shows knights, mythical animals, and musicians (especially the organist).

After exploring the monastery we went to a brief mass. The monks in Santo Domingo are from the Benedictine order. The perform the "horas" singing Gregorian chants. It was a wonderful experience.

One more point of interest at Santo Domingo de Silos. The tree here is a giant Sequoia! According to oral tradition a small seedling arrived at the monastery, imbedded in a potato, from Canada in 1890. 

AFTER leaving Santo Domingo de Silos we headed for a brief hike through the Desfiladero de la Yecla. It is a beautiful slot canyon. It was a nice escape for all of us. Ironically, as we exited the canyon we noticed a number of vultures circling the area. We disappointed them!