“Ever since I was a child.” That’s how many Madrileños begin when asked about the Catedral Castrense de las Fuerzas Armadas.
Welcome to the Catedral Castrense de las Fuerzas Armadas also known as the Iglesia del Sacramento. This stunning church stands as a testament to Madrid’s rich history. It reflects the intricate relationship between faith and the armed forces.
Originally the church was part of a monastery. Cristobal de Sandoval y Rojas the Duke of Uceda founded it in 1615. He was the son of the Duke of Lerma a powerful figure under King Felipe III.
The Catedral Castrense de las Fuerzas Armadas project began with architect Juan Gómez de Mora in 1615. But construction didn’t start until 1671. It faced delays due to the Duke of Uceda’s downfall. The church wasn’t completed until 1744.
Inside admire the frescos by the González Velázquez brothers. They decorate the naves in an Italian style. These artworks depict the founders’ sisters and Benedictine saints. Look up to see angels playing with scrolls about the Eucharist on the portico ceiling.
Notice the two paintings by Luca Giordano. They adorn the founders’ altarpieces. These paintings depict Mary’s parents Joaquin and Ana and the Holy Family.
Gregorio Ferro created the neoclassical main altarpiece. He was a painter for Carlos III and a contemporary of Goya. It features stucco Corinthian columns framing a painting. This artwork shows Saint Benedict and Saint Bernard worshiping the Eucharist.
Several architects contributed to the Catedral Castrense de las Fuerzas Armadas including Francisco Bautista and Manuel del Olmo. Bartolomé Hurtado García was the main director of the project. Francisco Esteban handled the interior decoration in 1744. Pedro de Ribera designed the granite facade around 1744.
Today only the church remains of the original monastery. The convent building was torn down in 1972. The church was damaged during the Civil War. Fernando Chueca Goitia restored it. The structure and decoration remain almost intact.
Around 1980 the Ministry of Defense acquired the church. It became the headquarters of the Archbishopric. It is now officially known as the Catedral de las Fuerzas Armadas de España. People often call it the Catedral Castrense.
In 1985 José Manuel Estepa Llaurens blessed the church. He was the Archbishop. King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofía attended with military officials. The Catedral Castrense de las Fuerzas Armadas was declared a National Artistic Monument in 1982.
Today the Catedral Castrense de las Fuerzas Armadas hosts military events. The Royal House and military orders participate in services here. The main altar displays flags of Spain and Vatican City. The church also has an organ.
The Catedral Castrense de las Fuerzas Armadas holds the remains of military vicars. Cardinals José Manuel Estepa Llaurens and Juan del Río Martín are buried here. Some victims of the Yak-42 plane crash in Turkey in 2003 are also interred here.
The Catedral Castrense de las Fuerzas Armadas stands as a symbol of faith. It also honors the dedication of Spain’s armed forces. Its art architecture and history create a unique cultural landmark in Madrid.