The Royal Monastery of the Incarnation or Real Monasterio de la Encarnación is
a famous convent of Madrid. It is situated in the order of Recolet Augustines, Spain. This institution used to intern the
ladies from noble families. Its foundation was laid by the
Queen Margaret
of Austria,
wife of Philip
III.
This building is kept open for common people as was in the ancient times. In
those days, it was administered by the Patrimonio Nacional. It is
said that the queen founded this building for celebrating her husband's
expulsion of the Moriscos, resident Moors. The design of this building was
presented by the architect, Alberto de la Madre de Dios in
1611-1616. The facade has a sobriety which reminds the beautiful and unique
style of Juan
de Herrera.
The monastery has now partially become a museum. It has various art works of
the times of St.
Januarius and
of St.
Pantaleon.
The interiors of this building were renovated during 18th century,
and some changes were made including frescoes in the ceilings of the main
chapel. These changes were made by Francisco Bayeu. Not only this but also the center
of the retablor had been redecorated by Vincenzo
Carducci.
The sides of the altar have sculptures of Augustine of Hippo and
his mother Saint Monica, which were presented by Gregorio
Fernández.
Practical
information
A
guided tour can carry you there in just 30 minutes. Its trip provides you a
chance to explore the galleries having paintings and sculptures of ancient
times, including works of Vicente Carducho, Juan Van der Hammen, Gregorio
Fernández and Pedro de Mena. The timings of the tour are; Tuesday, Wednesday,
Thursday, Saturday: 10.30am to 12.45pm, and 4.00pm to 5.45pm. On Friday, its
timing is 10.30am to 12.45pm, while there are no services on Mondays. The
closest metro station is Opera, and you can take buses 3, 25, 39 and 148.The
church is located at Plaza de la Encarnación, 1. Entrance is free with the Madrid
Card.
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