Iglesia de Santo Tomé
This modest church with a fine Mudéjar bell tower was restored in the 14th century with funds donated built by the Count of Orgaz, a wealthy mayor of Toledo. The compelling reason to visit is to see El Greco’s masterpiece, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz, painted in 1586. The story goes that when the count died, St. Augustine and St. Stephen descended from heaven to perform the burial. The huge painting depicts the miracle and a group of startled local dignitaries. It is mounted in a separate vestibule to accommodate visitors without disturbing the church’s worshippers. To avoid the tour groups that descend to view the painting, go early or at lunchtime, and buy your ticket in advance online.
A prized de Graaf pipe organ that makes this a choice venue for organ concerts, so check the schedule before arriving.
This modest church with a fine Mudéjar bell tower was restored in the 14th century with funds donated built by the Count of Orgaz, a wealthy mayor of Toledo. The compelling reason to visit is to see El Greco’s masterpiece, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz, painted in 1586. The story goes that when the count died, St. Augustine and St. Stephen descended from heaven to perform the burial. The huge painting depicts the miracle and a group of startled local dignitaries. It is mounted in a separate vestibule to accommodate visitors without disturbing the church’s worshippers. To avoid the tour groups that descend to view the painting, go early or at lunchtime, and buy your ticket in advance online.
A prized de Graaf pipe organ that makes this a choice venue for organ concerts, so check the schedule before arriving.
Details
Bookstore
Available as paperback
and as e-book.
