Church of Saint Anthony of the Germans

The Church of San Antonio de los Alemanes, located in the heart of Madrid, is a hidden gem of Spanish Baroque, encapsulating a rich history of events and transformations. Originally known as Hospital de los Portugueses, it was built by the order of Philip III between 1624 and 1633 to serve Portuguese pilgrims and patients. With Portugal’s independence in 1640, King Philip IV and his wife, Mariana of Austria, dedicated the complex to the Germans residing in Madrid, renaming it San Antonio de los Alemanes. The church stands out for its elliptical plan, a rare feature that contributes to its architectural uniqueness. It was designed by architect Pedro Sánchez and decorated by some of the most renowned artists of the time. The frescoes adorning the interior are the work of Francisco Rizi, Juan Carreño de Miranda, and Luca Giordano, depicting scenes from the life of Saint Anthony of Padua, the saint to whom the church is dedicated. The dome is particularly remarkable, with its representations of angels and saints seemingly floating above the faithful. The church’s history is closely linked to the Real Hermandad del Refugio, a brotherhood founded in 1615 that still manages the church today and engages in charitable activities such as food distribution and assistance to the homeless. The Hermandad del Refugio has played a crucial role in preserving the complex, especially during times of crisis such as the Spanish Civil War, when many artworks were hidden to protect them from destruction. An interesting anecdote concerns the legend of the miracle of Saint Anthony, who is said to have saved a child from drowning in the Tagus River. This miracle is depicted in one of the frescoes inside the church and attracts numerous devout visitors every year. Additionally, the church also houses relics of Saint Anthony, making it an important pilgrimage site. In the 19th century, the church’s facade was renovated to harmonize with the adjacent building of the Hermandad del Refugio. This intervention, completed in 1880, gave the church the external appearance we see today, with decorative elements elegantly blending with the internal Baroque style. The interior of the church is a true feast for the eyes. Every inch of the walls is covered with vibrant frescoes depicting biblical stories and scenes from the saint’s life. The three side chapels, added in the 18th century, house altars adorned with sculptures and paintings of great artistic value, commissioned by the last Habsburg kings of Spain. The church was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1973, a recognition of its historical and artistic value. The numerous restorations it has undergone over the centuries have allowed it to maintain its original beauty while preserving its function as a place of worship and charity.