Located in the hills of Ayerbe, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Casbas is much more than just a place of worship. It is a haven of history, art and tradition that has captured the imagination and devotion of the inhabitants of Alto Aragon for centuries. This temple, known by its nickname “The Sistine Chapel of Upper Aragon”, owes its prestige not only to its deep connection with King Peter II of Aragon and the region of Occitania, but also to its dazzling pictorial decoration and its role in the social and religious life of the region.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Casbas is closely linked to the figure of Pedro II of Aragon, the monarch who reigned in the late twelfth and early thirteenth centuries. The existence of this sanctuary and its confraternity is documented since 1341, and over the centuries, it has witnessed popular devotion and architectural changes that have left their mark on the place.
From a Romanesque chapel to a Baroque temple
The sanctuary we see today has its roots in a Romanesque style chapel, although the current building is a baroque construction from the 18th century. Composed of two adjoining buildings – the hermitage itself and an outbuilding that includes the santero’s dwelling and rooms for the pilgrims – the whole has a symmetrical composition that stands out for its solidity and beauty.
The temple, built in ashlar stone, has a single nave and a chancel with a straight headwall, separated from the nave by a gate. Its interior is covered by a vault of lunettes divided in four sections, illuminated by openings on the south side. At the foot of the nave is a raised choir, adorned with a semicircular arch, which adds a touch of solemnity to the space.
The Sistine Chapel of Alto Aragon
What really distinguishes the Sanctuary of Casbas is its exceptional pictorial decoration, one of the jewels of the Aragonese baroque. The frescoes that cover walls and vaults offer a complete Marian iconographic program, combined with abundant plant motifs and illusionistic architectural elements. These paintings, executed in the early 18th century with a dry technique, stand out for their vibrant colors and richness of detail that transport the visitor to a world of devotion and visual splendor.
The images, arranged in venerated niches separated by painted pilasters, include depictions of saints such as St. Luke, St. Matthew, St. Peter, St. Paul and many more, creating an atmosphere that invites contemplation and reflection.
Altar Photo: https://www.patrim.net/
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Casbas has been, since ancient times, a well-known and frequented place of devotion and popular traditions. Each year, the faithful flock to participate in the annual pilgrimage, an event that combines faith, culture and community in a vibrant celebration. In addition, the sanctuary has for centuries been a place where marriage agreements known as “apañijos” were sealed, a reminder of how religion and local customs have been intertwined in the daily lives of the Aragonese.
The sanctuary also houses valuable furnishings, such as the altarpiece of the main altar, dating from the early 18th century, and a pulpit from the same period, as well as a 17th century bas-relief. The gate, dating from the 17th century, separates the nave from the chancel and adds a touch of antiquity and authenticity to the whole.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Casbas has undergone several alterations over the centuries. At the end of the 19th century or beginning of the 20th century, the building of dependencies was reformed, adding the gallery of the second floor. More recently, at the beginning of the 21st century, a major restoration of the mural paintings was carried out, sponsored by the Government of Aragon and executed by the company Tesera S.L. In addition, in 2017, the sanctuary reopened its doors after a new phase of rehabilitation that involved an investment of 150,000 euros, with contributions from the Government of Aragon, the Provincial Council of Huesca and the Ayerbe City Council.
For its historical, artistic and religious value, the sanctuary was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 2014, thus guaranteeing its conservation for future generations.
Visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Casbas is an experience that connects spirituality, history and natural beauty, making this place an essential destination for any traveler in search of the deep essence of Aragon.
