The unknown (and spectacular) Romanesque gem that a town in Palencia holds

Castile and León is home to one of Spain's most unique Romanesque treasures. Located in the region of La Ojeda, north of the province of Palencia , is the Church of San Juan Bautista , in the village of Moarves de Ojeda . A temple whose silhouette goes unnoticed among the undulations of the region and is surrounded by green meadows and the Burejo and Tarabás rivers.

Its famous southern portal led to its declaration as a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931 , recognized as one of the most outstanding sculptural works from the country's medieval period. Despite this, it remains a little-known site, even among historical tourism enthusiasts.

The church of Moarves de Ojeda

The façade, dominated by a frieze depicting the Pantocrator surrounded by evangelical symbols, is the most striking feature of this medieval architectural monument. In the work, twelve precisely carved figures frame the scene.

You can also see its carved capitals with scenes depicting dance and wrestling, including an image of Samson with a lion and a knight facing a serpent-like monster. Also notable are the sculpted figures of musicians, dancing women, figures with shields, and even faces with donkey ears.

This is a sculptural ensemble full of symbolism and dynamism . The interior of the church is more sober, and you can see up close a baptismal font preserved from the 13th century and decorated with figures of apostles.

When can you visit the temple?

The church doors are only open during religious services. However, there is one time of year when you can visit the interior without having to wait for these ceremonies: summer. During this time, the church remains open as part of the monument opening program of the Palencia Provincial Council and the Regional Government of Castile and León.