Abbey of Santo Domingo de Silos

Santo Domingo de Silos-01-Kloster-gje

Abbey of Santo Domingo de Silos

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Monastery information
Full name
Other names
Order	Benedictine
Denomination
Established	929 AD
Disestablished
Reestablished
Mother house
Dedicated to	Saint Dominic of Silos

The Abbey of Santo Domingo de Silos (Spanish: Monasterio de Santo Domingo de Silos ) is a Benedictine monastery in Santo Domingo de Silos, in the province of Burgos, Spain. It is renowned for its Romanesque architecture, particularly its cloister, and its historical significance in the region.

History

The abbey was originally founded in 929 AD during the reign of King Ramiro II of León. It was named after Saint Dominic of Silos, a Benedictine monk who served as its abbot in the 11th century and played a crucial role in its development and expansion. The abbey became a center of religious and cultural life in medieval Spain.

Architecture

The Abbey of Santo Domingo de Silos is celebrated for its Romanesque architecture. The cloister, built between the 11th and 12th centuries, is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque art. It features intricately carved capitals depicting biblical scenes and other religious motifs. The abbey church, also Romanesque, has undergone several modifications over the centuries but retains its historical character.

Cultural Significance

The abbey has been a significant center for Gregorian chant and has contributed to the preservation and revival of this ancient form of liturgical music. The monks of Santo Domingo de Silos gained international fame in the 1990s with the release of their recordings of Gregorian chant, which became bestsellers.

Library and Scriptorium

The abbey's library and scriptorium were important centers of learning and manuscript production during the Middle Ages. Many valuable manuscripts and documents were produced and preserved here, contributing to the abbey's reputation as a center of scholarship.

Modern Day

Today, the Abbey of Santo Domingo de Silos remains an active Benedictine monastery. It continues to attract visitors and pilgrims from around the world who come to admire its architectural beauty, attend religious services, and experience the serene monastic environment.

See Also

• Romanesque architecture
• Benedictine Order
• Gregorian chant
• Saint Dominic of Silos
• Santo Domingo de Silos