“Psst, have you heard the story of Santa Teresa?” I ask, leaning closer. This convent, nestled between La Rambla and the streets of Horts and Tereses, holds a secret. Santa Teresa began as a small community of women. They gathered around Elionor Ortiz, a member of the Third Order of Carmelites.
Elionor’s reputation for holiness spread. She expressed her wish to establish a convent in the city. Her brother offered land and secured royal approval. However, the Carmelite Order initially hesitated. They didn’t have any houses on the island at that time. Despite the challenges, the Bishop of Toledo authorized the foundation in 1617. Three nuns arrived from Guadalajara. One of them was chosen as the first prioress.
Interestingly, Elionor’s delicate health prevented her from joining the community. Her family withdrew their support. Yet, her fame persisted. After her death in 1650, she was buried in the Carme convent. When it was demolished, her remains were moved to the cathedral. Finally, in 1909, they were brought to this very Santa Teresa.
Construction of the Santa Teresa church began in 1624. It was consecrated in 1637. The church is dedicated to Santa Teresa de Jesús. It features a Latin cross plan and a quadrangular presbytery. The roof has a cannon vault. The crossing boasts a dome on pendentives and eight segments. A central lantern crowns it all.
Look closely at the main altarpiece. Mateu Joan created it in 1700. Notice the quadrangular windows with their latticework in the galleries. The facade rises above a small courtyard. A line divides it. Two hexagonal towers stand on the upper edges. The portal has two stipes with geometric decorations. Above it all stands Santa Teresa.
Santa Teresa also has a rectangular cloister with lowered arches. Plus, there is a chapter house covered with a rib vault. In 1836, the Carlist War impacted Santa Teresa. Despite the turmoil, the sculpture of Carmen, made from alabaster, was saved. It remains preserved in the church of La Sang. Take a moment to appreciate Santa Teresa. Remember the story of Elionor Ortiz. Think about the nuns living in seclusion here. Let us respect this sacred space.