A Journey to the Heart of Mozarabic Art and the Peace of the Valley of Silence (EN)

In the Alto de la Cruz, on a strategic point of the Bierzo, stands a unique viewpoint that pays homage to Mozarabic art. The centerpiece, a work in Corten steel by the artist Rogelio Pacios, recreates the iconic door of the church of Santiago de Peñalba, accompanied by a quote from Father Flórez in his work España Sagrada (Sacred Spain). From this enclave you can enjoy breathtaking views over Peñalba de Santiago, Montes de Valdueza and Montes Aquilianos. The viewpoint, inaugurated by the City Council of Ponferrada, includes a bench where you can contemplate the immensity of the landscape of Bierzo.

The origin of the monastery of Santiago de Peñalba dates back to the 10th century, when St. Genadio, bishop of Astorga, after restoring San Pedro de Montes, promoted monastic life in the valley of Silencio. Founded between 909 and 919, it was a spiritual and cultural center. The church, almost finished when Genadio died, was consecrated in 1105. Ramiro II donated a votive cross and Abbot Salomon promoted its development. From the 12th century, the monastery lost its community and was placed under the tutelage of the cathedral of Astorga. Its church, a Mozarabic jewel, is today a symbol of the Tebaida Berciana.

Located in the foothills of the Montes Aquilianos, the village preserves a magnificent example of rural architecture of the Bierzo region: stone houses, slate roofs and rustic wooden corridors. At its heart stands the church of Santiago de Peñalba, a jewel of Mozarabic art, completed in 937 by Abbot Salomón. Its humble exterior contrasts with an interior of horseshoe arches and beautiful remains of mural painting. From the village, a peaceful walk leads to the cave of San Genadio, where the saintly bishop sought spiritual retreat in the midst of nature.

The Valley of Silence, part of the Bierzo Tebaida, extends to the southwest of the Aquilian Mountains, also encompassing the Oza and Friguera valleys. In this place of recollection, St. Genadio founded in the 10th century an oratory in the area known as Santo Tomé, of which there are no longer visible remains. Nearby, his disciple San Fortís planned to build a Mozarabic church, but it would finally be Abbot Salomón who would build it in Santiago de Peñalba. From this village there is a path that leads to the Cave of San Genadio, spiritual refuge of the saint carved into the rock.