The monumental complex of San Juan de la Peña has resumed its tourism and cultural activities following the Las Peñas de Riglos wildfire, which brought flames to within just 50 meters of the Old Monastery. The reopening also includes a new videomapping installation in the church of the New Monastery, tracing the site’s history and its ties to the origins of the Kingdom of Aragon.
San Juan de la Peña reopens after the Las Peñas de Riglos wildfire
The Old and New Monasteries, along with the Hospedería’s food service facilities, reopened on October 31, after access was restored and the facilities were prepared. The wildfire, which broke out this summer, had forced the suspension of activities at one of the Jacetania region’s leading heritage and tourism sites.
Before visitors returned, on October 26, the remains of Aragon’s first kings and other members of the royal lineage were returned to the Royal Pantheon. They had been moved to the Huesca Museum as a safety measure amid the advancing fire.
Environment and Tourism Minister Luis Biendicho, speaking at an event held at the New Monastery, highlighted the site’s resilience and its value as a place where natural heritage, history, religious tradition, and the origins of the Kingdom of Aragon converge.
A videomapping installation at the New Monastery brings the site’s history to life
The reopening adds a new audiovisual experience: a videomapping installation projected inside the church of the New Monastery. Available since its launch on Saturday, the presentation traces the history of San Juan de la Peña and its connection to the formation of the Kingdom of Aragon.
The feature has been added to the monumental complex’s visitor offerings. Since October 31, the public has once again been able to visit the Old Monastery through its regular guided tours, as well as the New Monastery and the Interpretation Center, and use the Hospedería’s café and restaurant services.
The Hospedería’s accommodations, however, remain seasonally closed for overnight stays during the winter months.
Reopening restores tourism activity in the Jacetania region
San Juan de la Peña’s return to operations restores a significant tourism draw for the Jacetania region and for the economy tied to visits to the monument. The site affects nearby municipalities including Santa Cruz de la Serós, Botaya, Bailo, and Jaca, where tourism supports lodging, hospitality businesses, retail stores, and other services.
San Juan de la Peña brings together historical heritage, natural wealth, culture, gastronomy, and tradition in a single setting. With its reopening and the addition of the new audiovisual format, the complex is once again welcoming visitors after the emergency caused by the wildfire.
