A journey through the Ribera region takes us through the flatlands and along the rich river valleys carved by flowing rivers. It gives us the chance to experience the intense silence of the pastures and fields.
The cold dry north winds blow through the walls of the Monastery of Nuestra Señora de la Oliva. The interior surprises us with its Cistercian austerity and monastic way of life, where time is suspended in the art of its stonework.
We move on to Ujue, Olite and Tafalla, towns built on protective hilltops so the dwellers could see the enemy way before he could see them.
Each and every narrow cobblestone street in these towns is steeped in history, inviting curious visitors to come and read the past in the stark facades and broad portals.
Overlooking the town of Ujue and its labyrinth of streets is the Sanctuary of Santa María. A finely carved, silver-plated Virgin can still be seen inside the church, separated from the rest of the world behind a massive Gothic wrought iron railing.
A church of devoted followers, Santa María's two towers give it a battle-hardened fortress-like feel, while its architecture reflects the passing of centuries and artistic styles.
But the Ribera is also a region of particularly beautiful manor houses, churches and castles built with intricate detail and well-designed spaces.
