It was established as a daughter house of Santes Creus Monastery.
The monastery was built on land granted by James II to his son, Pere, in fulfillment of a vow.
The name 'Valldigna' was allegedly coined by King James II, who called it 'Valls digna per a un monestir' (a valley worthy of a monastery).
The site was historically a power center that exercised lordship over the entire valley.
Much of the current structure was reconstructed from ruins after the site was purchased by the Valencian government in 1991.
It is one of the few examples of the Cistercian order's expansion into the Valencian Community.
The Monastery of Santa María de la Valldigna is a former Cistercian abbey founded in 1298 by James II of Aragon. It serves as a prominent example of Cistercian architecture, characterized by its austere and functional design. The complex includes the 14th-century church, a restored chapter house, and the ruins of the cloister. It is designated as a heritage site under the protection of the Generalitat Valenciana. The monastery was abandoned in 1835 following the Mendizábal Disentailment. Extensive reconstruction work in the late 20th century stabilized the remaining structures for public access. It remains a center for historical study and regional cultural exhibitions.
The archways of the partially reconstructed cloister looking toward the church facade.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby mountain trails of the La Safor region.
Check the official website for current temporary art exhibition schedules before traveling.
Allocate extra time to walk around the exterior walls to view the scale of the original monastic enclosure.
Visiting during the heat of the afternoon in July or August, as there is limited shade in the central courtyard area.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet tone, as the space is often used for reflective exhibitions and research.
