Hidden among the modern buildings of Madrid stands the Ermita de San Blas de Canillas. Its unassuming exterior belies a rich history. This small hermitage is the sole surviving structure from the ancient village of Canillas. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of a community.
The Ermita de San Blas de Canillas is more than just a pretty building. It’s a time capsule. Its simple Baroque architecture speaks volumes about 17th-century Madrid. Notice the understated elegance. This style reflects the era’s artistic sensibilities. The hermitage’s construction concluded in 1698. That’s a detail often overlooked.
But the story of the Ermita de San Blas de Canillas begins long before 1698. Archaeological studies have unearthed the remnants of a medieval church. This older structure likely dates back to the 14th or 15th centuries. Imagine the lives lived in its shadow. The foundations remain under the chapel’s arches. They whisper of centuries past.
The current building owes its existence to Baron Sebastián de Molinet. He was the seventh Lord of Canillas. In the late 17th century he commissioned a significant renovation. This was no minor fix. It was a complete transformation. Lucas Ruiz de Heredia and Marcos López master builders from Madrid led the project. They produced the beautiful structure we see today. The hermitage has a single nave and several annexes. It’s a charming structure built of brick and mixed masonry.
The Ermita de San Blas de Canillas is situated atop a small landscaped hill. It’s surrounded by newer buildings. The buildings somewhat obscure the hermitage’s original design. In 2022 it earned the distinction of being declared a Heritage Site of the Community of Madrid. This is a tribute to its significant historical and artistic value. Its interior boasts historically and artistically valuable mural paintings. These survived years of neglect and near ruin.
The restoration was extensive. It cost 830000 euros. This involved stabilizing the ancient crypt below the altar. The crypt had threatened to cause the entire church to collapse. It was a race against time. Now the paintings have been restored to their former glory. They are once again visible.
The Ermita de San Blas de Canillas stands as a silent observer of Madrid’s evolution. It’s a reminder of the town’s history. It is a place of quiet beauty and reflection. It is a treasure to be cherished and explored. It represents more than just bricks and mortar. It tells the story of Canillas’ past and its enduring presence within the heart of Madrid.