Church of San Fermìn de los Navarros

The Church of San Fermín de los Navarros, located in the Chamberí district of Madrid, represents an extraordinary example of neo-Mudéjar architecture, a movement that combines elements of Muslim art with Gothic and Renaissance influences. Originally founded by the Real Congregación de San Fermín de los Navarros, a brotherhood of Navarrese residents in Madrid, the church was built between 1886 and 1890 according to the designs of architects Eugenio Jiménez Corera and Carlos Velasco Peinado. The history of the church has deep roots. The Real Congregación, established in 1684, initially met in a chapel of the Convento de la Victoria. In 1746, the members decided to build their own church, which was completed on Paseo del Prado. However, this first church was demolished in 1885 to make way for the construction of the Banco de España. The congregation then purchased a plot of land owned by Isabel de Borbón on Paseo del Cisne, now Paseo de Eduardo Dato, where the new church was built. The architecture of the Iglesia de San Fermín de los Navarros is a masterpiece of neo-Mudéjar style. The brick façade, with a checkerboard pattern that imitates the paño de sebka, is decorated with Gothic elements and shields of Navarra and Spain. The carved stone portal and horseshoe windows add a distinctive touch reminiscent of medieval Islamic architecture. The tall tower, dominating the façade, is a characteristic element of the neo-Mudéjar style and gives the building a commanding presence. The interior of the church is equally fascinating. The Latin cross plan features three naves, with the central one higher than the side ones, and a transept topped by a star vault. The interior walls are plastered in lime, imitating stone, and decorated with golden lines that accentuate their elegance. The stained glass windows, in Gothic style, depict various symbols and religious scenes, including the coats of arms of Navarra. The main altarpiece, designed in the 20th century by architect José Yárnoz, houses a wooden statue of San Fermín, sculpted by Fructuoso Orduña. This sculptor is also the author of the other main statues in the church, including those of San Francisco Xavier and the Virgin of the Rosary. The latter, a Baroque sculpture from the 18th century, is one of the most precious works in the church. An interesting anecdote concerns the celebration of July 7, the feast day of San Fermín, the patron saint of Navarra. On this occasion, the church becomes the center of festivities and religious ceremonies that attract numerous Navarrese and devotees from all over Spain. This event, which includes processions and solemn masses, highlights the deep bond between the church and the Navarrese community. Throughout the 20th century, the church underwent several modifications and restorations to maintain its structural and artistic integrity. Restoration work included repairing stained glass windows, restoring wooden sculptures, and reinforcing the tower and exterior walls. These efforts were crucial in preserving the original appearance of the church and ensuring its long-term stability.