Spain moves 11th-century royal relics from monastery threatened by wildfire

Spanish authorities successfully evacuated the remains of three 11th-century kings of Aragon from the San Juan de la Peña monastery, a historic 10th-century site, as a wildfire threatened the area. The relics were transported to the Huesca Museum, located about 80 kilometers south, for temporary safekeeping until conditions improve.

The wildfire, which began on Monday, intensified on Thursday due to high temperatures and strong winds, moving closer to the monastery situated in a mountainous region. The urgency to protect the cultural heritage prompted a daring rescue operation.

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The threat of the historic monument being engulfed in flames led the authorities to the rescue operation.

Initially, a military unit specializing in emergency response managed to enter the monastery and retrieve ceremonial vestments belonging to an 18th-century count. However, as the flames drew nearer, the team had to withdraw. They returned for a second attempt, accompanied by police and cultural heritage officials, successfully recovering the remains of the three early Aragonese kings who reigned between 1035 and 1104, along with several historical paintings.

The vice president of the northeastern Spanish region praised the rescue team's bravery. The fire has already burned over 9,000 hectares and led to the evacuation of 16 towns and villages. Meanwhile, a much larger fire in southern Spain has consumed 31,000 hectares and forced the evacuation of approximately 700 people.

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The rescue team's bravery is commendable.