The former royal church of Madrid is an awe-inspiring Gothic structure atop a serene, grassy knoll near the city centre’s royal museum.
The San Jerónimo el Real church was built at the end of the 15th century. It was initially intended as a haven of tranquility as its location was in the outskirts of the city. Over the centuries, the sprawling city of Madrid grew around the church, leaving it in the centre of the prominent metropolis. See how the church survives today as a shining example of early Gothic architecture and remembrance of the former religious influence over the sovereignty in Madrid.
The church’s extravagant Gothic façade is prominent atop a grassy knoll. The structure has a central nave with five chapels on each side. Peruse sculptures by the artists Mariano Benlliure and Juan Pascual de Mena and paintings by Vincenzo Carducci and José Mendez. Enjoy the brilliant colours streaming through the stained-glass windows with beautiful etchings of religious allegories. Parts of the church have been incorporated into the royal museum, the Museo Nacional del Prado.
The church played an important role within the royal family, partially due to its proximity to the palace. Several heirs to the throne were inaugurated in the structure. Although the site is no longer the official royal church, high society weddings still take place there. Watch for formal activities that may be happening.
Locals call the church simply Los Jerónimos. Admission is always free. Opening times vary slightly depending on the season. In general, it opens its doors in the morning and in the evening for a few hours each time.
The San Jerónimo el Real church is located in the centre of Madrid, next to Parque del Retiro, a huge park filled with trees and lakes. Visit other nearby attractions of the Palacio de Cristal and the Museo Nacional del Prado. The church is sandwiched between the Banco de España Metro station and Atocha railway station, which are each less than 1 mile (1.6 kilometres) away, so a reasonable walk on a pleasant day.
