The scent of freshly baked cakes wafts through the air. It’s a sweet invitation from the nuns of Sant Cristòfol.
Sant Cristòfol Monastery in Ibiza isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to faith and resilience. Founded in 1599 it’s the oldest inland institution on the island. The current structure is modern a 20th-century rebuild. But the spirit of the original remains.
Imagine four devout women. They began a communal life. Their goal was to establish a monastery. This was a time of religious fervor. There was a strong desire for Church reform following the Council of Trent. Two more women joined their ranks. This became possible thanks to the generosity of the General Vicar Antonio Andreu. He donated his possessions. He became the institution’s chaplain and confessor. The initial home was in Vila Mitjana. It was later deemed unsuitable. A better location was needed for the monastery’s construction. Catalina Aimeric a widowed founder added her wealth. The University ensured the monastery’s future. It provided funds from salt exports.
The early years weren’t easy. Attempts by Clarisse nuns from Tarragona failed. Finally three nuns from Santa Magdalena Monastery in Palma arrived. Their arrival was celebrated with great joy. The Rule of Saint Augustine formed the basis of their life. Love prayer and liturgical life were central. Community life with its principles of poverty obedience and chastity was crucial. The monastery thrived. Within the first year thirteen novices were admitted.
The old houses were transformed. This was a long and arduous process. The church and other buildings were constructed. It took many years. The 17th-century building was demolished in 1961. It was rebuilt over decades to its present form. Yet the interior still holds treasures. Historical and artistic objects accumulated over nearly four hundred years.
The main altarpiece is a masterpiece. Created in 1685 by Pere Serra from Barcelona it is carved gold polychromatic wood. It depicts Saint Christopher. Saint Andrew and Saint Augustine are also featured. Above is Saint Joseph. Other saints adorn the altarpiece. There are paintings too. Two 17th-century canvases depict the Passion of Christ. Others show Saint Roch Saint Peter and Saint Catherine. A beautiful Genoese Baroque water font adds to the collection.
So as you stand here before Sant Cristòfol Monastery remember this story. It is a testament to faith perseverance and the enduring beauty of art. Don’t forget to ring the bell. You can enjoy the nuns’ delicious cakes. They are a delightful souvenir of your visit.