The church of Santa María la Blanca, located in the historic center of Alcorcón, Community of Madrid, is an important Catholic temple with a rich history. Built on the possible site of an ancient medieval mosque, although without confirmed remains, its first references date from the Relations of Philip II. The construction of the present building began at the end of the 16th century, specifically in its chevet and apse, and lasted until the 18th century. A notable event in its history was in 1619, when the remains of San Isidro Labrador were temporarily deposited in the church during the return of King Philip III to Madrid. This event, documented by Fray Nicolás José de la Cruz in 1790, highlighted the importance of the temple in the religious and social life of the time. Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest on June 10, 1993, the church has undergone several restorations, including the discovery of the original flooring in 2015.
Architecturally, the church presents an exterior of marked sobriety, built with masonry and brick caissons of Toledo influence. The polygonal apse houses an 18th century Baroque altarpiece, made of gilded wood, which includes figures of the Virgin, Saint Anne, Saint Anthony and the four evangelists. Despite damage during the Civil War, the altarpiece was restored and the images replaced, maintaining its status as a national historic artistic heritage. This set of architectural and historical features makes the church of Santa María la Blanca a cultural and religious emblem of Alcorcón.
- Address
C. San Isidro, 5, Alcorcón, Madrid - Web
https://santamarialablanca.weebly.com/ - Visiting Hours
Every day from 9:00 to 13:30 and from 17:30 to 20:30 - What to see
Baroque altarpiece