Sacred Windows ~ The Journey of the Rose
Join us on-site for an immersive 7-day creative retreat on the Camino de Santiago
July 22 - 30, 2026
Step into the world of sacred art and architecture, where geometry, light, and contemplation come together in timeless beauty.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and energy of the Camino as we explore the evolution of the rose window — across stunning pre-Romanesque, Romanesque and early, high & flamboyant Gothic styles.
Along the way, visit breathtaking sites where these masterpieces come to life, experiencing firsthand the artistry and symbolism that have inspired generations.
What to expect
Hands-on Sacred Geometry – Use the traditional tools of ruler and compass to construct timeless designs we will encounter.
Poetic Presentations – Enjoy informed and visually beautiful explorations delving into the symbolism and use of geometry in sacred art on the Camino.
Inspiring Excursions – Journey through the breathtaking mountains of Asturias, where sacred spaces and landscapes await.
Soak in the Camino – Savor quiet, contemplative walks in between sessions if you wish, in our breathtaking surroundings, connecting with the spirit of pilgrimage.
Mornings will be dedicated to geometry sessions. In the afternoons, explore a variety of traditional and contemporary techniques for bringing your designs to life:
Foraging, preparing and painting with natural earth pigments from the Camino
Rendering tracery
Painting stained glass effects
Gilding and using ruling pens
Paper embroidery
Or instead you may prefer to dive deeper into geometry or simply take a walk and enjoy time to yourself.
Our Journey
The birth of the rose — Discover the first known rose window and how it was birthed from the art of earlier epochs: Celtic, Roman, Jewish, Visigothic and a deep dive into Asturian pre romanesque lattice windows.
Pilgrim’s perspective — Discover how the first and last rose connect with the history and story of pilgrimage in northern Spain.
The principles of the rose — Explore expressions of heaven and earth, harmonious proportions, musical ratios, pointed stars and kissing circles that all contemplate the centre.
A sacred cosmos — Experience how early Christian temples are in deep communion with nature.
More than a workshop
Rooted in place — this retreat provides a space to discover, slow down, create and be present.
Situated in an ancient setting — take walks in nature in between sessions, enjoy a local pilgrim’s labyrinth or simply soak in the landscape letting the atmosphere of the Camino inspire you.
Experience local traditions at the “La Magdalena” festivities
This will also be a unique opportunity to experience the enchanting annual village festivities of “La Magdalena”. Immerse yourself in the traditional music, dress and dances, enacted in honour of Mary Magdalene, the patron saint of the village. The whole village comes together once a year to celebrate!
Location & Accommodation
You will be staying in one of the most beautiful villages in all of Spain as voted by National Geographic.
Castrillo de los Polvazares dates back from Celtic time through to the 16th century. Enjoy stunning views at every turn. The retreat centre, lovingly restored in recent years, maintains its traditional architecture with heart and soul.
Enjoy delicious home cooked meals under the pergola shaded by an old vine and fruit trees. You will be staying in charming ensuite rooms at Flores, or at the nearby hotel (150m away) with stunning views overlooking the village, church and rural landscape.
*Extend your stay further. Explore the traditional art that announces the rose in “Timeless Patterns: the Wonder of Roman Mosaics” (July 12 - 20, 2026).*
A unique opportunity
Deepen your exploration by joining the retreat right before this one. This prequel opens a window into 2,000 years of geometric art, linking ancient Roman mosaics to the later sacred art traditions that flourished along the Camino.
With a two-day break in between, you can choose to either rest at the retreat centre, explore the nearby historic town of Astorga or walk the local section of the Camino.
More information below.
Your Facilitators
-
Bertrand is a leading expert in the use of geometry in sacred architecture and has made extensive research in the field. He is an experienced retreat facilitator and educator, teaching on creative and contemplative practices and teaches geometry as a contemplative, hands on practice.
-
Clarissa Grandi (MEd) is a geometric artist, author, and experienced teacher. First and foremost an educator, her passion is introducing beginner artists to the truly accessible art of geometry. She delights in sharing her ideas, materials, and techniques with others, and her background in mathematics teaching enables her to demonstrate and explain difficult concepts simply and clearly. In her own artmaking she enjoys exploring the interplay between the precision of human-made geometry and the more organic and chaotic geometries and symmetries found in nature.
-
Basia is an artist, educator, experienced retreat facilitator and pilgrimage guide, living and working on the Camino.With a masters from the Kings's School of Traditional Arts she specialises in the use of geometry in traditional arts, craft & philosophy. Her creative practice spans various mediums, including foraging, preparing and painting with natural earth pigments.
What is a retreat?
Workshops are often mainly skill-focused and goal-oriented, while retreats are also experience-focused. Along the way, you will not only gain valuable skills and insights but will also be invited into deeper connection—with the land, history, yourself and others.
Start the day gently with silent breakfasts. Appreciate time spent in community as well as quiet moments for reflective and creative activities.
Different to a sightseeing tour, our immersive visits will focus more on the quality of the encounter and a contemplative experience of place.
Is this retreat for me?
No prior skills or artistic abilities are required, only a curious and open mind. We welcome people from all walks of life, all faiths or none.
If the following describes you, then you are a perfect fit for this retreat:
I appreciate moments of quietness & times of reflection.
I give space to others and can listen.
I value community experiences as well as my own individual journey.
What’s included
Private transport from & to Madrid airport
See times & pick up point details.
If you prefer to arrive independently to the retreat centre, see how to get here.
Accommodation
All accommodation consists of individual ensuite bedrooms.
Food
All meals are included except one lunch taken outside the retreat centre.
Dietary requirements
We cater for the following dietary requirements: vegetarian, gluten-free, carb-free, dairy-free. Contact us regarding other diets.
Sessions & outings
All equipment, materials, site entries and transport fares for visits are included.
What’s not included
Flights
Insurances (travel, health, etc.)
One restaurant lunch when we visit Asturias (25 ~ 35€)
If you book both retreats:
Three lunches are not provided in between the two retreats.
There are restaurants in the village, in nearby Astorga or along the Camino.
Book this retreat
To register you will be requested to pay a non-refundable initial deposit. Please ensure you read this Summary of Terms & Conditions.
Sacred Windows retreat
July 22 - 30, 2026 3,100 €
* Unique offer *
Roman Mosaics & Sacred Windows Retreats
July 12 - 30, 2026 6,200 € 5,800 €