Basilique Notre-Dame de la Miséricorde, Minor basilica in Tetuán district, Madrid, Spain.
The basílica Hispanoamericana de Nuestra Señora de la Merced is built in a Latin cross shape with two towers and a dome that crowns the altar area. Inside, side chapels and an upper gallery divide the space, creating different areas for prayer and worship.
The basilica was built following a design competition won by architects Francisco Javier Sáenz de Oíza and Luis Laorga during the mid-20th century. Its completion marked a moment in Spain's post-war modern architecture.
The side chapels within represent different Hispanic American nations and reflect the historical ties between Spain and Latin America. Walking through them, you notice how this connection shapes the space and its purpose for worship.
The basilica is open to visitors during worship hours and accessible by foot from the surrounding neighborhood. Visitors should dress respectfully and avoid times when services are taking place to explore the interior properly.
The interior ceiling displays an exposed metal framework supporting glass panels, a departure from typical church construction of its era. This modern approach allows light to filter through in unexpected ways, shaping how the space feels.
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