Church of San Pedro el Viejo

The red-brick church with the tall tower you can see is the Iglesia de San Pedro el Viejo, one of the oldest churches in Madrid. Its exact origins are unknown, but the name appears in Madrid’s town charter from 1202. The current structure, shaped by multiple renovations, was mainly built in the 14th century and is now a blend of different styles added over time. The oldest and most interesting feature is the tower, which has preserved its original Mudéjar style. Its two small Arab-Byzantine windows are a rare sight in Madrid. The Renaissance-style entrance beside the tower dates back to the 16th century. Inside, you’ll find the sculpture of Jesús el Pobre, or “Jesus the Poor’, carved by Juan de Astorga in Seville and gifted to Madrid in 1812. According to a local legend, the church once had a bell so heavy that no one could lift it — until one morning, it mysteriously appeared atop the bell tower, with no human help. Ever since, it’s been said to have the power to keep storms away, and as you can see, there’s no storm in sight.