This cloister outside Burgos has seen a lot of action. Built in the 12th century in a richly ornamented style, it was once a summer place for Castilian royalty, as well as a retreat for nuns of royal blood. Inside, the Gothic church is built in the shape of a Latin cross. Despite some unfortunate mixing of Gothic and baroque, it contains much of interest -- notably some 14th-and 17th-century French tapestries. The tomb of the founder Alfonso VIII and his queen, the daughter of England's Henry II, lie in the Choir Room.

Thirteenth-century doors lead to the cloisters, dating from that century and blending Gothic and Mudéjar styles. Despite severe damage to the ceiling, the remains of Persian peacock designs are visible. The beautiful Chapter Room contains the standard of the 12th-century Las Navas de Tolora (war booty taken from the Moors), and the Museo de Ricas Telas is devoted to 13th-century costumes removed from tombs. These remarkably preserved textiles give a rare peek at medieval dress.

The monastery is 1.6km (1 mile) off the Valladolid Road (the turnoff is clearly marked). From the Plaza Primo de Rivera in Burgos, buses for Las Huelgas leave every 20 minutes.

Open Hours

Oct-Mar Tues-Sat 11am-2pm and 4-6pm, Sun 10:30am-3pm;

Apr-Sept Tues-Sat 10:30am-2pm and 3:30-5:45pm, Sun 10:30am-3pm