The Church of Santa María Madre, known locally as Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor, stands as a beacon of historical and architectural splendor in the heart of Ourense, Spain. This 18th-century marvel, with its roots tracing back to the city's earliest days, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Galician history and culture.
The Church of Santa María Madre is believed to be built on the site of the original cathedral of Ourense, which was destroyed in 716 by the Moorish leader Abdelacid. The original church was commissioned by King Carriarico, inspired by the miraculous healing of his son through the relics of Saint Martin of Tours. This act not only led to the construction of the church but also marked the king's conversion to Catholicism in 550.
Rebuilt in 1084 by Bishop Ederonio after suffering from various invasions, the church was later demolished in 1717 to make way for a new Baroque structure. This reconstruction was spearheaded by Bishop Marcelino Siuri, with the architectural work beginning in 1721 under the guidance of Fray Juan de Samos. The project was continued by Bishop Juan Muñoz de la Cueva and executed by master builders Pedro Serrapio and José Piñeiro.
The Church of Santa María Madre is a testament to Baroque architecture, featuring a stunning façade with a cruciform layout, lantern, and dome. The façade is adorned with eight marble columns and Corinthian capitals, some of which date back to the 5th century, originating from the ancient cathedral of Ourense. A striking feature is the niche housing a stone image of Santa María Madre, crowned by a beautiful stained glass window.
The façade is composed of three sections, with the uppermost crowned by a pediment and two small bell towers. The intricate design is highlighted by a circular coat of arms representing Bishop Siuri, surrounded by the theological virtues of Faith, Hope, and Charity. The grand staircase leading to the entrance connects the Plaza de la Magdalena with the city's main square and serves as the backdrop for the ceremonial Desplante, commemorating a historic dispute between church and state in the 18th century.
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Inside, the church boasts a single nave with a Latin cross layout, featuring six simple ribbed vaults. The main altar is a masterpiece of Churrigueresque style, crafted from wood and showcasing a 16th-century Baroque sculpture of Santa María Madre, the patroness of tailors. Flanking the central figure are statues of Saint Joseph and Saint Teresa of Ávila, while the upper section displays reliefs of Bishop Siuri and Fray Juan de Samos, beneath a depiction of God the Father.
The church houses several other remarkable altars, including the neobaroque altar of the Virgin Milagrosa, featuring a chestnut wood statue by Nicanor Carballo. This altar is adorned with intricate rocaille designs and illuminated by an electrical installation that highlights the statue's halo.
On the opposite side, the rococo altar of the Piety is a visual delight, with its ornate mirrors and cherubic faces. This altar also holds an 18th-century articulated image of the reclining Christ, a significant relic from the city's traditional Holy Week celebrations.
The church is rich in religious imagery, with statues of San Antonio de Padua, the Sacred Heart, Santa Rita de Casia, and the Virgin of Carmen adorning the nave. A striking crucifix greets visitors at the entrance, setting the tone for the spiritual journey within.
Among the treasures are a large canvas of the Immaculate Conception, painted by Antonio Castrejón in 1684, and a replica of the Santa María Madre statue used in the Easter procession. This replica was created to preserve the original, which was once lowered for ceremonies using a pulley system that risked damaging the artifact.
The Church of Santa María Madre is not just a historical monument but a living testament to the enduring faith and cultural heritage of Ourense. Its walls echo stories of resilience and devotion, making it an unmissable destination for anyone exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Galicia.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, the Church of Santa María Madre offers a profound glimpse into the past while continuing to inspire the present.
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