Madrid Theme Tours

From Saint To The Inquisition

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San Isidro,  who died in 1172, and was canonized in 1620, is the Patron Saint of Madrid. Our first stop is the beautifully restored site of  the Condes de Paredes where San Isidro lived. In the quite cloister we hear stories of his miracles before visiting the ancient well where one of these miracles was performed.  There is also interesting art work here recording local religious events over the centuries.

The interior of Saint Andrew’s church is next on our visit. It is hard to believe as we look at the black marble, high alter and imposing dome that this had been reduced to rubble during the Spanish Civil War.  Our refreshment stop is in an interesting tavern where, down in the very old cellars we hear why it is known as the Spanish equivalent of Ana Frank’s house.

After visiting the great church of San Isidro to see our saint’s coffin we enter the Plaza Mayor and learn all about the Spanish Inquisition! We go to  see the pillar's underneath the plaza where the heretics were encouraged to recant and what happened to those who did not!

Added optional is a meal in the former chapel of the Santa Cruz.

Copyright ©: 2004

The Wellington Society of Madrid

Revised 11 September, 2004

www.wellsoc.org