The Church and Museum of San Andrés

In this charming square, you’ll find one of the oldest churches in Madrid — San Andrés — and the museum that shares the same name. The current church dates from the late 17th century, but its origins go back to the 12th century. It’s also where Saint Isidore the Labourer — Madrid’s patron saint — was first buried. The story goes back even further. The earliest church is believed to have been built atop an important mosque from Islamic Madrid. Over the centuries, the church has seen many changes, but the original was built in the Mudéjar style. The term Mudéjar refers to Muslims who lived under Christian rule during the more tolerant periods of the 11th century. The style that bears their name combines Islamic elements with Christian and Jewish architecture — a beautiful mix of traditions and aesthetics. The Alcázar of Seville is another stunning example. The small Chapel of San Isidro is attached to the church, where the saint’s remains are still kept today. The museum next door takes you on a journey through Madrid’s past — from prehistoric times to the rise of the royal court in Spain.