Two former Catholic nuns were arrested after allegedly planning to sell dozens of historic artworks in northern Spain.

The Guardia Civil has presented a collection of historic artworks and objects recovered during Operation MIRUM-CID, following the discovery of an alleged plot to sell approximately 30 valuable pieces.

The investigation, led by the Judicial Police Unit of the Burgos Command, is focused on protecting Spain's Historical Heritage.

Officials said the seized items were obtained through court-authorised searches at the Santa Maria de Bretonera monastery in Burgos and the Santa Clara de Orduna convent in Bizkaia.

Among the recovered pieces is a 16th-century polychrome wood carving of the Virgin of Bretonera, regarded as one of the most significant devotional works from the Burgos monastery.

Authorities also recovered the 14th-century Cristo de Belorado, a sculpture whose medieval carving remains almost completely preserved, although its cross is of modern construction.

Two Baroque oil paintings were also seized - one depicting the Immaculate Conception, and the other illustrating the Stigmatisation of Saint Francis. Both paintings are attributed to a 17th-century Castilian school workshop and are in notable condition.

An original 16th-century will belonging to Maria de Velasco, the abbess of the monastery, was found wrapped and stored in a private room at the Orduna convent, allegedly prepared for sale.

All recovered items are now under the custody of the Court of Instruction in Briviesca, Burgos, which is overseeing the case. The artworks will be transferred to the Archdiocese for conservation and safekeeping.

The investigation remains ongoing.