In May 2001 Ovidio Campo signed a contract with local farmer Don Eliecer Ten Temino, owner of the land and the ruins, to rent the space in the monastery. In July 2002 they opened a donativo pilgrim shelter, created in the spirit of austerity with 6 double bunks donated by the army. In 2007 the Department of Development of Castile y Leon invested €300 000 to restore the ruins to the standard you see them today. The new albergue was dedicated to Ovidio's brother Julian and his friend Jose who were killed in a train accident along with 4 other pilgrims in August 2006. Every year, on the anniversary of their death, a memorial mass is held in the ruins.
Pilgrims approach the ruins from the road that runs between Hontanas and Castrojeriz
The tall double gate into the ruins
The sight that greets you as you enter - the small lean-to shelter in the lee of the walls which is where the main entrance was to the monastery.
The rose window comprises TAU cross decorations
The walls enclose the courtyard - the albergue is on the left
Views from the outside
The 16th century arch spans the road
The ornate portico was the main entrance to the monastery.
The albergue dorm and living area lies directly behind the double arches which have been closed.
The two niches in the arch where pilgrims leave messages
Medieval monks left wine and bread for pilgrims who arrived too late to enter the monastery. Each day I put fresh water, wine, biscuits and sometimes fruit in the niche
Seen approaching from the Castrojeriz side
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