Templo Nacional de Santa Teresa de Jesús y Convento de los Padres Carmelitas Descalzos, Carmelite church and convent near Plaza de España, Madrid, Spain.
This temple and convent complex is a religious building in Madrid featuring a three-nave structure with a central dome covered in multicolored mosaic tiles. The eclectic architectural style blends various design elements into a single structure.
Construction began in 1916 after the Discalced Carmelites returned to Madrid following their expulsion in 1836 during the Mendizábal confiscation. This rebuild marked the community's return to religious work in the city.
The temple's design was inspired by Saint Teresa's literary work 'The Interior Castle', incorporating medieval fortress elements into its facade. This architectural choice reflected the spiritual significance the order attributed to her writings.
The complex functions as a religious community with residential spaces and a nursing facility, with services held regularly throughout the week. Visitors should check opening times since it primarily serves as a private space for prayer and community life.
Two substantial oil paintings by Francisco Cossio hang in the side chapels, depicting the Apotheosis of Saint Teresa and the order itself. These artworks were commissioned specifically for this location and remain little known despite their artistic merit.
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