San Jerónimo “el Real”, popularly known as “Los Jerónimos”, was one of the most important monasteries in Madrid and is one of its most amazing churches, both for its appearance and for its history.
Of the original building, the Church currently survives -the only Gothic-style building in Madrid- and the Cloister, which suffered progressive deterioration throughout the 19th century and, after an agreement with the ecclesiastical authorities, was incorporated into the Prado Museum as part of its enlargement.
The Monastery of San Jerónimo el Real
The history of this Church is closely linked to the history of Madrid for having been part of the life of the Court and the monarchy.
It was founded in 1464 by King Enrique IV of Trastámara as the Monastery of Santa María del Paso on the banks of the Manzanares River, on the El Pardo road, but due to the unhealthiness of the area, in 1503 Queen Isabella the Catholic granted the monks a new settlement, to the east of the town of Madrid.
Although Madrid was not the capital of the kingdom, the royal family spent long periods in the city, and in the absence of a suitable building to accommodate them, they stayed in the monastery. What was then known as the Prado de los Jerónimos began to become popular, eventually becoming the Paseo del Prado .
Emblematic events of the Court, important in Spanish history, took place in this Monastery.
It has been the scene of the swearing-in ceremonies of the heirs to the crown of Spain as princes of Asturias, from Felipe II in 1528 to Isabel II in 1833.
It was also the place chosen for the wedding of Alfonso XIII with Victoria Eugenia of Battenberg in 1906 or the “coronation” Mass of Juan Carlos I as King of Spain in 1975.
What to see in the Jerónimos Church?
The Church
Beautiful in its antiquity and style, most of it being from the 19th century, when the façade and the two twin towers that frame the main chapel were rebuilt.
It retains its late Gothic style, it is built on a Latin cross floor plan and is made up of a central nave, a transept and five chapels on each side.
Alfonso XIII’s wedding to Victoria Eugenia of Battenberg in 1906 led to the construction of the monumental staircase.
Considered a National Monument since 1925 and, since 1995, a Site of Cultural Interest with a Monument category. Inside you can find valuable works of art, such as The Adoration of the Shepherds, by Francisco Rizi.
The Cloister
Known as “The Moneo Cube” due to its current external appearance, due to the latest recovery and incorporation into the Prado Museum as part of its expansion designed by the architect Rafael Moneo.
Connected by a tunnel that allows access, it can be visited with the entrance to the museum of Prado.
Undoubtedly, the most attractive thing about the Jerónimos Church is its exterior, unique in Madrid, which despite undergoing different uses, restorations and modifications, has maintained its style over the centuries. The church is located in a relief that raises it and increases its majesty.
For information on schedules or how to get there, you have this link on the website of the Community of Madrid City Council portal.
Whats around the Jeronimos
It has the Parque del Buen Retiro and the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace), the Prado Museum, the Puerta de Alcalá and the Plaza de la Cibeles, we recommend this plan to visit Madrid in 1 day, these tips for your first visit to Madrid or the 10 most visited places in Madrid.
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