Here stands the Monumento a la Santísima Virgen María. This monument embodies faith, history, and artistic expression. It serves as a testament to Madrid’s deep-rooted Catholic heritage.
The story of the Virgin of Almudena, the statue this monument honors, is fascinating. Legend says the statue was brought from the Holy Land in the year 38. James the Apostle brought it. Like all relics, it was deemed holy. People considered it to have supernatural properties.
In 712, as Muslim forces advanced, the townspeople hid the Virgin. They sealed the image inside the town’s walls. This was for its protection. Centuries passed. In the 11th century, King Alfonso VI of Castile reconquered Madrid. Christian soldiers sought the hidden statue. After days of prayer, a section of the wall crumbled. The statue was revealed.
Another legend tells a similar tale. Christian soldiers approached Madrid. They had a vision of Mary. She implored them to let her lead them into the city. Miraculously, a wall crumbled. The icon showed an entry route.
The statue became known as the Virgin of Almudena. The name comes from the Arabic term Al-Mudayna meaning the citadel. In 1908, Our Lady was named patroness of Madrid. This was made official by decree.
The Almudena Cathedral was later built. It stands on the hill where the statue was found. The cathedral symbolizes the faith of Madrid’s people. Thousands of tourists visit every year.
The Catedral de la Almudena is also known as the Santa María la Real de La Almudena. It is Madrid’s main Roman Catholic cathedral. Construction finished in 1993. But plans date back to the 16th century. Various factors delayed its realization.
Queen Maria de las Mercedes of Orleans initiated the project. Her husband King Alfonso II laid the cornerstone for the crypt in April 1883. The cathedral has two levels. The lower one is called The Crypt. The upper serves as the main sanctuary.
The crypt’s facade features triple doors. These have semicircular arches. Inside, there are five naves and 18 chapels. These are supported by 400 columns. The capitals feature biblical themes and nature. The symbol of Madrid is also present the bear and the strawberry tree. Queen María de las Mercedes of Orleans rests in the Crypt.
The cathedral was built with great effort. The cost of labor was high. The architectural ideal was not realistic. For decades, Madrilenians called the building endlessly.
The cathedral features a neoclassical style. It is influenced by its proximity to the Royal Palace. The main entrance faces the palace. It has a large portico with a double colonnade. Two large coats of arms adorn the base of the towers. They represent the Spanish royal house and Pope John Paul II. The Pope consecrated the cathedral.
The Catedral de la Almudena is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary of Almudena. After the Muslim invasion of Spain, the figurine was hidden. It lay undisturbed for over 400 years. King Alfonso VI the Brave prompted a procession. During fervent prayers, a section of the wall collapsed. Inside they discovered the figurine. Two burning candles marked the spot.
I recommend visiting the museum located at the main entrance. You’ll find liturgical exhibits. Also see historical photographs of the cathedral and its scale models. Head up to the dome for a panoramic view of the city. Pause at the bronze doors. The left side commemorates the discovery of the figurine. The central part recalls the day of consecration. The right side celebrates the Virgen de la Almudena festival.
Today, the Monumento a la Santísima Virgen María stands. It is a reminder of Madrid’s history and enduring faith. It connects us to the legends of the past. This statue continues to inspire and protect.