The Monastery of San Jerónimo de Valparaíso is located at the foot of the architectural complex of Medina Azahara, less than 20 kilometers from the historic center of Córdoba. Surrounded by an impressive native vegetation, Arab remains from the city of Medina Azahara were used, where the palace built by the Caliph for the use and enjoyment of his favorite wife was located. In fact, there is a legend that there is a tunnel that connects the Mosque of Cordoba with the city palace so that the Caliph could go to see his favorite without being seen.

However, the curious thing about this building is not the altarpieces, the inner courtyard, the church or the ancient chapels… What is interesting about this monastery is how an originally aristocratic building was transformed into the first seat of the order of St. Geronimo in Spain.

As related in the book “Paseos por Córdoba”, by the writer Ramírez de Arellano, among the ancient hermits of the Albaida was Brother Vasco, Portuguese by origin, who after being in Italy to perfect himself in the eremitical life, returned to Spain with the firm purpose of establishing in Spain the order of St. Geronimo, of which there was not yet any monastery.

While he was living in solitude in the area, some companions came in search of him and he went to meet with the Bishop of Cordoba to consult him about the possibility that he had been thinking about for so long in his hermit life. The Bishop not only offered him protection but also support. However, the most important thing was missing: the site for the construction of the monastery. Without it, the foundation was impossible.

Such was the Portuguese’s faith, holiness and ability to encourage, that the bishop made it his business to obtain the land for the future monastery. To this end, he arranged an appointment with his friend Inés de Pontevedra, wife of Diego Fernández de Córdoba, Warden of the Donceles. A meeting that was to be decisive for the future order of St. Geronimo.

One of Inés’ grandchildren, who was ill, mysteriously healed during the course of the meeting with the hermit. No one dares to say whether it was a coincidence or a miracle, but Doña Inés felt so grateful that she gave Brother Vasco the choice of three pastures of her property: two in the countryside and the third in the mountains, in the enclave known as Valparaíso, where the monastery stands.

The donation was made in 1394, although it would be fourteen years before the foundation was really established.

After the closure to which the monument has been forced, like others, due to the pandemic, fortunately this monastery reopens its doors since last September 25, until next December 11, being able to book the visit, through the web.