DESCRIPTION AND WHAT TO SEE IN THE IRANZU MONASTERY
The monastery was built as a monastic center for the Cistercian order. Its location, in the middle of a valley surrounded by mountains, provided a quiet and secluded environment for monastic life. Over the centuries, the monastery was expanded and renovated, and became an important center of spirituality and learning.
During its heyday, Irantzu Monastery came to have great influence in the region. The Cistercian monks dedicated themselves to prayer, study and manual work, following the principles of the order. Furthermore, the monastery accumulated significant wealth and economic power, thanks to the lands and properties it owned throughout the region of Navarra.
However, over the centuries the monastery also suffered periods of decline and abandonment. During the confiscation of the 19th century, many of their properties were confiscated and sold. Fortunately, in the mid-20th century, the monastery was restored and returned to its original splendor.
Today, Irantzu Monastery is an important tourist and religious destination. Visitors can admire the monastery's medieval architecture, visit its Gothic church, and stroll through its beautiful cloister. Additionally, the monastery houses a small museum displaying religious art and historical objects related to monastic life.
Monastery Church
The church is one of the main attractions of the monastery. It is a Gothic style building with Renaissance elements. You can admire its architecture, its stained glass windows and its religious carvings.
Cloister
The monastery has a beautiful cloister dating from the 13th century. It is a quiet and serene place where you can walk and admire the medieval architecture. The arches and carved columns are especially notable.
Church
The monastery church has three naves, a transept and a triple straight apse. The naves are separated by pointed arches that rest on robust pillars. The cross vaults are supported by powerful transverse arches, with ribs that rest on corbels and suspended columns with capitals decorated with schematic plant motifs.
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Lavatory
This space has a polygonal plan and follows the Gothic style. However, it was practically rebuilt during the restoration in 1942, giving it a more modern look.
Chapter Room
The chapter house, built at the end of the 12th century, has a ribbed roof that is supported by two central columns. The entrance stands out for its semicircular arch, flanked by flared windows.
Kitchen
The kitchen, built in the 13th century, is characterized by its central fireplace supported by four pointed arches. The cross vaults have decorated keystones and are supported by corbels and capitals decorated with geometric and vegetal motifs. Externally, there are ashlar walls reinforced by buttresses, highlighting the chimney.
Sacristy
Built in the first half of the 17th century in the Mannerist style, the sacristy has a rectangular floor plan.
Refectory
Access to the refectory is through a Gothic doorway. Although of medieval origin, the room was profoundly transformed in the 17th century. Currently it cannot be visited.
Abbey house
Forming an angle with a restored portico, the Abbey House preserves the central panel with a large arch from the 12th century. The house itself has a pointed arch on small columns, which dates back to the same century, although it was restored in the Baroque style. Currently it cannot be visited.
Gardens and natural environment
The monastery is surrounded by beautiful gardens and an enchanting natural landscape. Take the opportunity to take a walk around the area and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.
Hiking trails
If you like hiking, you can take the opportunity to explore the trails that surround the monastery. These routes will allow you to enjoy nature and discover impressive landscapes of the Navarra region.
