Religious foundations and linked convents

Religious foundations and convents have been, throughout the history of Spain, fundamental elements in both the spiritual life and the social and cultural structure of the country. These spaces not only served as places of reflection and prayer, but also became centers of education, culture, and economy, profoundly influencing Spanish society from the Middle Ages to the 21st century.

Historical Context

The arrival of Christianity in the Iberian Peninsula in the 1st century marked the beginning of a long process of building religious communities that would consolidate in the following centuries. During the Reconquista, the religious impetus intensified; lands and privileges were offered to those who founded convents and monasteries, thus intertwining the creation of these institutions with the process of repopulating conquered territories. The founding of convents was not only of a religious nature but also responded to the need to socially organize the newly conquered lands.

In the 12th century, the consolidation of mendicant orders – such as the Franciscans and Dominicans – brought a new spirit to religious life. Unlike monks who withdrew to a contemplative life, these orders dedicated themselves to preaching and caring for the poor, which allowed for a greater connection with local communities. This phenomenon resulted in numerous foundations, especially in the new cities that emerged on the peninsula.

Convents and Foundations: A Detailed Look

Convents transformed into places where not only prayers were offered, but also significant social work was carried out. In the 16th century, for example, St. Teresa of Jesus initiated a series of reforms within the Carmelite Order, promoting foundations characterized by their austerity and a life more focused on prayer and contemplation. The foundation of San José in Ávila in 1562