Convent of San Plácido, Renaissance convent in Universidad district, Madrid, Spain
The Convent of San Plácido sits on Calle del Pez and combines Renaissance architectural features with its purpose as a religious dwelling. The building integrates classical design principles with the needs of a Benedictine community.
The convent was founded in 1623 and experienced major changes in the early 20th century. It was demolished in 1903 and rebuilt in 1912 by architect Rafael Martínez Zapatero.
The convent displays paintings from 17th-century Spanish artists within its spaces, reflecting how religious communities commissioned works for their own devotion. These pieces show the artistic preferences that shaped religious life during this period.
The site continues to function as a Benedictine community but opens to visitors interested in its architecture and artworks. Check access arrangements and visiting hours in advance of your trip.
In the 1620s, the convent became the focus of an Inquisition investigation centered on reported supernatural events. This episode left historical traces preserved in local records.
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