Church of the Holy Cross

The Church of Santa Cruz, located in the historic center of Madrid on Calle de Atocha, is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic and neo-Mudéjar architecture. This place of worship has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the 16th century, when the Convent of Santo Tomás de Aquino was founded by the Dominicans. The original construction of the current building began in 1626 under the patronage of the count-duke of Olivares, but over the centuries it has undergone numerous fires and reconstructions. The current structure, designed by architect Francisco de Cubas, began to take shape in 1889 and was completed in 1902, thanks to a public funding campaign. The red brick and white Colmenar stone facade is a typical example of neo-Gothic style, with a large pointed arch and a triangular pediment topped by a cross. A notable detail is the relief by Aniceto Marinas depicting the Apotheosis of the Cross, located above the main entrance. One of the most impressive features of the church is its tower over eighty meters high, which recalls the tradition of the tower of the ancient parish, known as the “Atalaya de la Corte” for its height and visibility. This tower, with a cantilever and a bell level parapet, was for a long time one of the tallest structures in Madrid until the construction of the Telefónica Building in the 1920s. Inside, the church features a single nave with eight side chapels, each dedicated to different devotions. Among these, the statue of Saint Jude Thaddeus stands out, known as the patron saint of impossible causes, attracting hundreds of devotees every Wednesday, making it one of the most venerated images in Madrid after the Cristo de Medinaceli. Another significant work is the painting of the Virgen de la Cinta, patroness of Huelva, venerated by a subsidiary brotherhood of the Andalusian city. The church also houses the Archicofradía del Santo Entierro, one of the oldest brotherhoods in Madrid, founded in 1412. This brotherhood organizes solemn processions during Holy Week, especially on Good Friday, carrying the images of the Santo Entierro and the Virgen de los Siete Dolores through the city streets. The history of the church is marked by dramatic events, such as the great fire of 1876 that completely destroyed the previous building. The construction of the new temple was a symbol of rebirth for the community, which contributed with donations to complete the work. The church has undergone various restorations, the latest of which has preserved the original decorations and improved the structure to adapt it to modern needs. The central location of the church, just steps away from Plaza Mayor and the Las Letras neighborhood, makes it easily accessible and an ideal starting point for exploring the historic center of Madrid. Its architectural beauty and historical importance make it a must-visit for anyone visiting the Spanish capital.