I returned from a wonderful visit to Spain earlier this week where I spent time exploring the Castilla-León region and sampling wonderful wines from the Ribera del Duero wine region.

One of my many stops during my exploration of the region was the town of Covarrubias, recently named the “nicest small town in Castilla-León.” While visiting the town’s collegiate church, I learned more about Christina of Norway, Infanta of Castile, interred in the church’s cloister.

Christina of Norway, the daughter of Hakon IV, was betrothed to Philip, brother of Alfonso X of Castile, in Spain. They married in 1258, but Christina passed away tragically at a young age four years later. She was only 28 years old. She was carried to the abbey church in Covarrubias and buried in a limestone sarcophagus. A statue of Christina now stands outside the abbey in Covarrubias.

During my visit, I participated a bit myself in the tradition. Near Christina’s tomb stands a bell. Legend has it that for those who ring the bell, Christina helps bring them a spouse. With nothing to lose, I decided to ring the bell. Stay tuned to see if Christina can bring me a husband!

 — Kim Krol, editor in chief