Convento de las Bernardas

In the heart of Alcalá de Henares, a city steeped in history and culture, stands the Convento de las Bernardas, an architectural gem that echoes the rich religious legacy of the region. Founded in 1613 by Cardinal Bernardo de Sandoval y Rojas, this Baroque masterpiece has been a silent witness to centuries of history, from its inception to its current role as a museum of religious art.

The Historical Significance of the Convent

The Convento de las Bernardas was established as a Cistercian convent for nuns, affectionately known as Bernardas. The cardinal, an influential patron of the arts and literature, commissioned its construction in the medieval Muslim quarter of Alcalá, a place that would later become a focal point of urban transformation during the Renaissance. The convent's construction began in 1617 and concluded in 1626, integrating the ancient Burgos gate within its grounds.

The convent endured significant damage during a fire in 1939, leading to extensive restoration efforts in the following decades. Although the Bernardas nuns left the convent in 2000, the building found new life as a Museum of Religious Art. Further renovations and restorations have preserved its historical and architectural integrity, making it a vibrant cultural and religious site once more.

Architectural Marvels

Originally attributed to Sebastián de la Plaza, the convent's design is now credited to the renowned architect Juan Gómez de Mora, who drew inspiration from the mannerist style of Rome's Santa Anna dei Palafrenieri. Gómez de Mora's influence is evident in other iconic structures, such as the Plaza Mayor in Madrid and the Clerecía in Salamanca.

The convent's façade is a classic example of the Baroque style typical of Alcalá, featuring a striking combination of red brick and stone. The central niche above the entrance houses a statue of St. Bernard of Clairvaux, attributed to Juan Bautista Monegro and Manuel Pereira. The façade is adorned with large coats of arms of its founder, adding to its grandeur.

The church within the convent is particularly notable for its elliptical plan and six side chapels, each mirroring the central space on a smaller scale. The crowning glory is the magnificent oval dome, the largest of its kind in Spain. Beneath the dome, the free-standing baldachin, housing the tabernacle, creates a breathtaking focal point.

The Museum of Religious Art

Inaugurated in 1997, the Museum of Religious Art within the convent showcases an impressive collection of 17th-century Italian paintings by Angelo Nardi. Visitors can marvel at the exquisite baldachin in the church's presbytery, crafted by Francisco Bautista, who later became the architect of the Collegiate Church of San Isidro in Madrid.

The museum also houses the Silver and Ebony Ark of Charles V, commissioned by his son Philip II, featuring intricate repoussé work depicting the emperor's victorious scenes. A unique piece is the Cardinal Sandoval's chair, a stunning blend of cabinetry and jewelry, embellished with rock crystal inlays resembling precious stones. Among the convent's treasures is a beautiful statue of the Immaculate Conception by Antonio de Herrera Barnuevo.

Exploring the Plaza de las Bernardas

The convent is part of the Plaza de las Bernardas, a historic square that includes the Convent of the Mother of God and the Archbishop's Palace. During the Renaissance, this area became a hub of urban development, transforming the former medieval Arab neighborhood into a vibrant center of religious and cultural activity.

Today, the Convento de las Bernardas stands as a testament to Alcalá de Henares' rich historical tapestry, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while serving as a beacon of culture and spirituality. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this remarkable site is sure to be a memorable experience.