Monastery of Inmaculada Concepción, Loeches

The Monastery of Inmaculada Concepción is a Dominican religious complex in Loeches with a striking Baroque facade and pointed dome, designed by architect Alonso Carbonell in 1640. The structure contains three open terraces, four side chapels, and multiple rooms decorated with preserved Talavera tiles.

The monastery was founded around 1640 by Gaspar de Guzmán, Count-Duke of Olivares and advisor to King Philip IV, as a religious sanctuary removed from court life. Later, it suffered loss when French forces seized a significant collection of paintings by artists including Rubens and Tintoretto during the 1809 invasion.

The monastery served as a spiritual sanctuary for the Alba family, who shaped its religious and material identity over centuries. Visitors can still sense this noble connection through the careful way the spaces and furnishings were organized to reflect their prominence.

The building can be explored from the outside, with the facade and exterior chapels easily visible. Visiting during daylight hours helps you appreciate the architectural details and decorative tilework.

Inside is a 1909 Alba family mausoleum with rows of black marble and golden bronze inscriptions. This tomb reflects the deep connection between the family and the monastery that shaped both for generations.

Location: Loeches

Website: https://monasterioloeches.org

GPS coordinates: 40.38610,-3.41231

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58