Monastery of Piedra and its Natural Park

Por Canaan

Por No machine.

The Monastery of Piedra stands in a privileged spot in the Calatayud region, beside the Piedra River, and today forms the heart of a natural park that combines medieval architecture, romantic gardens, and a spectacular display of waterfalls and caves.

Cistercian foundation and shift to leisure

In 1194, thirteen monks of the Cistercian Order founded the abbey, inspired by the rigor and simplicity of monastic life.
Over six centuries, the complex grew with Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque additions: chapter house, church, refectory, upper and lower cloisters.
The 1835 desamortización decree left the monastery abandoned until 1840 when the Muntadas family acquired, restored, and transformed it into a residence and leisure retreat.

The first European chocolate

In 1534, Friar Jerónimo de Aguilar, a former participant in the conquest of Mexico, sent the abbot cacao beans and the original recipe for drinking chocolate. Today, the Cistercian monks commemorate this historic milestone: the first cups of chocolate were prepared in these kitchens.

The Natural Park: waterfalls and caves

Waterfall of the Horse’s Tail: at 50 m high, it is the tallest waterfall in Spain, splitting into multiple streams.
Waymarked route: 6 km of trails covering 13 waterfalls, 8 caves (Iris Cave, Bat Cave…), viewpoints, and tunnels carved into the rock.
Romantic gardens: stone bridges, metal walkways, and landscaped corners adorned with plane trees, poplars, and centennial yews.

Visiting the monastic complex

Lower and upper cloisters, with limestone capitals carved into Gothic galleries.
Refectory and kitchen, where chocolate is recreated following the original manuscript recipe.
Calefactory, the first public heating room on the peninsula, with iron beds to warm the monks.
Thematic exhibitions: Wine Museum (D.O. Calatayud), Chocolate Museum, and Historic Carriage Hall.

Plan your visit

Entrance to the park and monastery is ticketed. It opens from 10:00 to 18:00 (check winter/summer schedule). Plan for 3–4 hours to complete the full route and book guided tours and Chocolate Museum access in advance.