La Rabida Monastery is a historic and picturesque monastery located in the town of Palos de la Frontera, in the province of Huelva, Spain. The monastery is situated on a hill overlooking the estuary of the Rio Tinto and the Atlantic Ocean, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The monastery was founded in the 14th century and played an important role in the history of Spain and the New World. It was here that Christopher Columbus stayed before his first voyage to the Americas, seeking support from the monks and local nobility for his expedition. The monastery also served as a meeting place for Columbus and the Spanish monarchs, where they discussed the details of the voyage and planned the conquest of the New World.
The architecture of the monastery is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, with a beautiful cloister and a church adorned with frescoes and sculptures. The interior of the church is particularly impressive, with a high altar and a beautiful wooden choir. The monastery also houses a museum dedicated to the life and voyages of Christopher Columbus, with exhibits on his travels, maps, and navigational instruments.
Visitors to La Rabida Monastery can take a guided tour of the monastery and the museum, learning about the history of the site and the role it played in the discovery of the New World. The monastery is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and a park, providing a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Overall, La Rabida Monastery is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history of Spain and the New World.
Hours:
Monday: Closed,
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM,
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM,
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM,
Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM,
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM,
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM