Real Monasterio de Santa María del Puig

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Monument

Price: €4 (guided visit) · free under-8s · Printing Museum free

Hours: Tue–Sat tours 10:00–12:00 & 16:00–17:00 · Sun & holidays 12:00 · Closed Mon

A fortress-monastery built on the orders of Jaume I in the 13th century to guard the revered image of the Mare de Déu del Puig, patron saint of the Kingdom of Valencia. Inside is the Museum of Printing and Graphic Arts, the most important in Spain and the second in Europe, with free entry.

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The Royal Monastery of Santa María del Puig is one of the great monuments of El Puig, in the L'Horta Nord district. It is a fortress-like monastery complex commissioned by King Jaume I in the 13th century to safeguard the venerated image of the Mare de Déu del Puig, patron saint of the former Kingdom of Valencia. Its robust silhouette is visible across the plain.

History

The monastery is tied to the figure of the conquering king and dates from the medieval period, founded to shelter a Marian image of deep popular devotion. Over the centuries it grew into a spiritual landmark of the region, with the austerity and defensive character typical of monastic architecture of the era in the Valencian lands.

What to see

Beyond the monastic complex and its church, the site has the Museum of Printing and Graphic Arts, the most important in Spain and the second largest in Europe, with free admission. It gathers presses, type and pieces that trace the evolution of the book and the printed word.

Tips for your visit

Pair the museum with a stroll through the old town of El Puig.
Check opening hours before going, as they may change by season.
Wear comfortable shoes: the complex is large, with old stone floors.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Royal Monastery of Santa María del Puig?

It is an imposing fortress-monastery commissioned by Jaume I in the 13th century to guard the image of the Mare de Déu del Puig, patron saint of the Kingdom of Valencia. It is one of the great monuments of El Puig, in l'Horta Nord.

What can you see inside the monastery?

Besides the fortified monastic complex, it houses the Museum of Printing and Graphic Arts, the most important in Spain and the second in Europe, which has free admission.

Is entry to the monastery free?

Entry to the monastery itself is not free, so it is best to check prices and opening hours on the official website. The Printing Museum it houses does have free admission.

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