The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes in Toledo is an Isabelline style Franciscan monastery built by Isabella I of Castile (1477–1504). It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The monastery was founded in 1477 by Isabella I of Castile and Fernando II of Aragon to commemorate the victory at the Battle of Toro. It was dedicated to Saint John the Evangelist for use by Franciscan friars.
The monastery is a masterpiece of Isabelline architecture, a style that combines Gothic and Mudéjar elements. The church has a single nave with a stellar vault. The cloister is Mudéjar in style, with a beautiful ceiling on the second floor.
The monastery was badly damaged by Napoleon's troops during their occupation of Toledo in 1809. It was restored in the 19th century and is now open to the public.
Here are some interesting facts about the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes:
* The monastery was originally intended to be the burial place of Isabella and Fernando, but they were eventually buried in the Royal Chapel of Granada.
* The monastery's church contains the tomb of Prince Juan, the only son of Isabella and Fernando who died in childhood.
* The monastery's cloister is home to a collection of Mudéjar tiles, which are some of the finest examples of this type of tilework in Spain.
* The monastery is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public for tours.
Would you like to know more about the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes?
* Construction and Architectural Style: Construction began in 1477 under the supervision of architect Juan Guas and was completed in 1504. The Isabelline style prominently features Gothic elements with intricate tracery and ribbed vaults, alongside Mudéjar influences like geometric patterns and horseshoe arches.
* Highlights: The main church stuns visitors with its stellar vault and richly decorated main chapel. The cloister, a tranquil haven, offers a beautiful example of Mudéjar ceilings with intricate designs. Look for the symbolic chains on the facade, commemorating Christian captives freed by the Catholic Monarchs.
* Visiting the Monastery: The monastery is open to the public for guided tours. Ticket prices vary starting at 4€. It's generally open year-round, except for December 25th and January 1st. Hours differ between winter and summer months, so it's recommended to check their official website for current information.