Almudena Cathedral (Madrid)

I was in Madrid 4 years ago, to freeze my eggs, a new city for me that I discovered with pleasure and great curiosity.

Another milestone in my life, after My Solo Wedding in Santorini.

Freezing my eggs was a thoughtful decision, however the process was longer and more emotionally painful than I’d have thought ...
But I’ve already told you all this in detail:

• Gift from Science
• Gift from Science - Part 2

 
Faith is what has helped me, the one I have in God, in the Universe but also faith in myself and in my choices, the way I react to hardships, and how I constantly challenge myself to become a better me day after day.

Without wanting to, this article is timely because this week I’ve been greatly tested on that side, staying on course towards your dreams while the path seems to be giving way beneath your feet…

To be silent and to learn to listen to oneself, this is the main principle of meditation but also of prayer.

And in fact, in 2018, I was going to the sumptuous Almudena Cathedral every day to calm my mind...

After the grandiose and opulent Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral located just opposite can’t be missed.

Built in the heart of the city, near the Plaza Mayor, its neoclassical style and multiple huge entrances make it one of the main attractions.

Its baroque dome and its columns inevitably recall the Pantheon in Paris which I talked about during my Honeymoon 2.

Begun in 1883, it wasn’t completed until 110 years later, for lack of money, and of political and religious wars.

Finally, in 1993 Pope John Paul II consecrated it, and a statue in effigy adorns one of the main entrances ...

It’s equally majestic in the evening, bringing out other details of its incredible architecture ...

102m (335ft) long and 82m (269ft) high, this cathedral is very impressive with its 4,800 m2 (52,000 sq ft).

But its originality lies in the duality of its architectural style: neoclassical on the outside (like the Royal Palace), but Gothic on the inside with modern and contemporary artworks.

Very different to the Reims Cathedral (France), that I’ve showed you already.

The wedding of King Felipe VI and Letizia Ortiz was celebrated in this cathedral in 2004.

This cathedral is a true incarnation of several eras dedicated to the Virgin of Almudena who sits in its centre.

And many people flock every day to approach the statue erected on a magnificent platform.

The Virgin of Almudena is the patron saint of Madrid, she’d have appeared several times in the past, near a wall built when the city was an ancient Muslim medina called Almudena.

Celebrated on November 9 with many processions, religious services, the entrance is completely covered with flowers, it’s a very important day for Madrid inhabitants. I had the chance to attend once and it’s fascinating.

Besides, I strongly encourage you to visit the Cathedral Museum, which exhibits the Virgin's ceremonial outfits and accessories, and also tells the story of the Diocese of Madrid (unfortunately no photos allowed).

Especially, the entrance to the museum will give you access to the Dome of the cathedral at 70m (230ft) high, surrounded by the 12 apostles.

And to admire the city, you don't need a helicopter like in my last article In the Air 3, the view from the roof is breathtaking!

The absolutely sumptuous neo-Romanesque crypt opened to the public in 1911 ...

Madrid is a city I like a lot, with its rich history, architecture, culture, there’s a lot to discover in this city.

Read my previous articles about Madrid:

• Manolo Blahnik
• Andy Warhol
• Freedom
• Sorolla
• Rainy day in Madrid​

Have a lovely week everyone!
 
Love & Joy,
L.