Royal Monastery of the Incarnation (Real Monasterio de la Encarnación)

One of central Madrid’s two royal monasteries, the 17th-century Royal Monastery of the Incarnation (Real Monasterio de la Encarnación) was built by Queen Margaret of Austria, and has become a primary example of Spanish Baroque architecture and an important sacred site in Spain. The monastery once operated as a convent for women mostly from royal families, and is decorated as such. The structure still belongs to the closed order of Recolet Augustines, but remains open to public by the Spanish government.

The monastery’s main chapel features frescoed ceilings painted by Francisco Bayeu, a cloister, and a main altar by Vincenzo Carducci. Various paintings and sculptures dot the interior. Many come to see what perhaps the royal monastery is best known for: its relic. a sacred orb said to contain the blood of Saint Pantaleon. It is believed to turn to liquid each year on July 26 on the eve of his feast day. Other relics housed in gold and silver are also on display.