Church of San Bernabé

The Church of San Bernabé is a granite structure with a rectangular floor plan and lateral chapels characteristic of Herrerian design. The building displays the clean lines and precise proportions typical of its architectural period.

King Philip II commissioned the building, with Francisco de Mora directing the project between 1594 and 1595. The same craftsmen who built El Escorial Monastery constructed this church.

The name honors Saint Barnabas, whose martyrdom appears in the central altarpiece painted by Juan Gómez. This artwork reflects the religious devotion and artistic standards of the late 16th century.

The building sits near train and bus stations, making it easy to reach when visiting from Madrid. The location provides straightforward access for those wishing to examine the architectural details closely.

The granite blocks come from local quarries such as Peña El Remendao and Cruz de la Horca. This geological link shows how deeply the building connects to the region's natural resources and landscape.

Location: El Escorial

Architects: Francisco de Mora

Official opening: September 21, 1595

Architectural style: Herrerian

GPS coordinates: 40.58486,-4.12700

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24