Madrid prepares for a historic procession with the country's most emblematic monstrance

An unprecedented event in the Spanish capital

Next Sunday, June 7, Madrid will be the setting for a religious event that promises to attract thousands of faithful. At 10:00 AM, Pope Leo XIV will preside over the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, known as Corpus Christi, in the iconic Plaza de Cibeles. This event is significant not only for its spiritual character but also for the presence of a jewel of Madrid's heritage: the processional monstrance that will accompany the Holy Father.

The monstrance to be used during this ceremony is a true symbol of Spanish Renaissance goldsmithing. Created between 1568 and 1574 by the royal silversmith Francisco Álvarez at the request of Isabel of Valois, wife of Philip II, this masterpiece stands out not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its uniqueness. Unlike other monstrances that belong to dioceses or religious institutions, this one is owned by the City Council of Madrid.

A notable feature of this monstrance is its innovative design that combines religious elements with profane motifs. Its reliefs depict scenes from the Passion of Christ alongside representations of fruits, birds, and classical figures such as the Sibyls. Additionally, the Madrid coat of arms with the bear and the strawberry tree is also present in this unique work.

The ceremony will begin with a mass in Cibeles, where a presbytery will be set up in front of the Municipal Palace. After communion, the Pope will initiate a historic procession that will proceed along Calle Alcalá towards Gran Vía. Upon reaching the San José (Calatravas) church, a turn will be made to return towards Cibeles using the opposite lane; this will ensure visibility for all attendees on both sides of the route.

At the end of the procession, Pope Leo XIV will impart his blessing with the Most Holy Sacrament to all the faithful present at this momentous event. The combination of religious art with a community celebration makes this Corpus Christi one to remember in the historical annals of Madrid.