Goya’s ghostly gaze greets you. Welcome to the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida. This unassuming chapel holds a secret. It’s a masterpiece painted by Francisco Goya himself.
The Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida is more than just a pretty building. It’s a vital part of Madrid’s history and culture. King Carlos IV commissioned this Neoclassical marvel between 1792 and 1798. He wanted a stunning chapel. He also wanted Goya’s genius to adorn it.
Goya’s frescoes are the real stars. They cover the dome and ceiling. They depict the miracle of Saint Anthony of Padua. The saint raises a man from the dead. The scene is set in contemporary Madrid not 13th-century Lisbon. Goya painted this masterpiece in just six months. That’s remarkable speed for such a grand project.
But here’s a little-known fact. Goya’s remains are buried here. They were brought from Bordeaux in 1919. A detail worth remembering is that the skull was missing. The Spanish consul famously cabled back to Madrid “Send Goya with or without head”. This odd detail adds to the chapel’s unique charm.
Every year on June 13th a pilgrimage happens. Young unmarried women come to pray. They ask Saint Anthony for a partner. It’s a lively and colorful tradition that adds another layer to this already captivating location. The Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida is more than a place of worship. It’s a testament to artistry devotion and a little bit of mystery. It’s a true hidden gem of Madrid. A place where art history and faith intertwine. This is Goya’s final resting place a place where history breathes life into the very walls. Take a moment to appreciate the genius. The details the stories. The spirit of Goya lives on within the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida.