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Description
A place of legend and reverence
The Monasterio de la Encarnación, in central Madrid, is another relic of the Hapsburg legacy. Founded by Margaret of Austria in 1611, the site is currently inhabited by Augustine Recoletos nuns who retire during visiting hours. The interior is populated with impressive sculptures and paintings.
One highlight here is Ribera's superb portrait of John the Baptist. The most interesting of its many salons is the Reliquario, where the solidified blood of Saint Pantaleon is kept in a glass orb. Supposedly, the blood turns liquid for 24 hours on July 27th of each year. According to legend, if the blood does not liquefy, it is a terrible omen. This is one place you have to see on your visit.
The Monasterio de la Encarnación, in central Madrid, is another relic of the Hapsburg legacy. Founded by Margaret of Austria in 1611, the site is currently inhabited by Augustine Recoletos nuns who retire during visiting hours. The interior is populated with impressive sculptures and paintings.
One highlight here is Ribera's superb portrait of John the Baptist. The most interesting of its many salons is the Reliquario, where the solidified blood of Saint Pantaleon is kept in a glass orb. Supposedly, the blood turns liquid for 24 hours on July 27th of each year. According to legend, if the blood does not liquefy, it is a terrible omen. This is one place you have to see on your visit.