Convento de Jesús, María y José, Carmelite convent in Vélez-Málaga, Spain
Convento de Jesús, María y José is a Baroque building in Andalusian Vélez-Málaga that serves as a convent for Discalced Carmelite nuns. At the center of the complex stands an interior courtyard framed by elegant columns and a fountain, creating an ordered and contemplative space.
The convent was founded in the 18th century, with its church built between 1738 and 1745 under Father Andrés de Santa Teresa's supervision. The structure reflects Baroque principles that were typical for Andalusian religious buildings of that period.
The interior walls display painted scenes of saints connected to the Carmelite order, alongside colored plasterwork that adorns the rooms. These decorations tell of the spiritual life of the nuns who have prayed and worked here for centuries.
The grounds include a working garden where fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants are grown to support the resident nun community. Access may be limited due to the active religious nature of the space, so it's best to check visiting conditions beforehand.
The main entrance portal is designed as an architectural retablo, following specific Carmelite principles with precise geometric proportions. This element shows how much the order valued symbols and mathematical order, even at the threshold of the building.
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