Ara Christi Charterhouse
Christian·Spain·Hotel and events venue·16th century
The Ara Christi Charterhouse, also known as Cartuja de Ara Christi, is a former Carthusian monastery located near El Puig in Valencia, Spain. Constructed starting in 1585, it was sponsored by the Roig family and its monastic community originated from Porta Coeli Charterhouse. The church, originally in a Renaissance style, was significantly damaged by Napoleonic troops, and the Carthusians were suppressed in 1835. The site later housed Capuchin monks and is now a hotel and events venue, having been declared a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1996.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1585 by monk architect Fray Antonio Ortiz.
- ›Sponsored by the Roig family of Valencia.
- ›Monastic community originated from Porta Coeli Charterhouse.
- ›Church suffered damage from Napoleonic troops in 1808.
- ›Carthusian order suppressed in 1835.
- ›Declared a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1996.
Renaissance
Renaissance-Style Church
Cartuja De Ara Christi
Fray Antonio Ortiz
- Stripping of Ornaments and Paintings By Napoleonic Troops In 1808
- Suppression of the Carthusians In 1835
About Ara Christi Charterhouse
The Ara Christi Charterhouse, also referred to as the Cartuja de Ara Christi, is a former monastic complex situated just outside El Puig in the province of Valencia, Spain. Its history is marked by construction, periods of religious activity, and subsequent repurposing.
History and Construction
The charterhouse was established in 1585, with Fray Antonio Ortiz, a monk architect, overseeing its construction. The project was funded by the Roig family of Valencia. The monastic community that occupied Ara Christi originated from the Porta Coeli Charterhouse in Serra, Valencia. The church, built in a sober Renaissance style, unfortunately suffered significant damage at the hands of Napoleonic troops in 1808, who removed most of its ornaments and paintings.
Suppression and Later Use
The Carthusians' presence at Ara Christi came to an end with their suppression in 1835. Following this, the premises were occupied by Capuchin monks. However, they too abandoned the site in the 1970s. In recognition of its historical importance, Ara Christi Charterhouse was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural for Spain in 1996. Today, the former monastery functions as a hotel and is utilized for various events and functions.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Ara Christi Charterhouse built?
The construction of the charterhouse began in 1585. It was built under the sponsorship of the Roig family of Valencia, with Fray Antonio Ortiz serving as the monk architect.
What happened to the monastery after the Carthusians left?
After the Carthusians were suppressed and left in 1835, the premises were occupied by Capuchin monks. These Capuchin monks eventually abandoned the site in the 1970s.
What is the current status of Ara Christi Charterhouse?
Today, the Ara Christi Charterhouse is no longer an active monastery. The site has been repurposed and now includes a hotel and facilities used for functions.
What is its architectural style?
The charterhouse church was constructed in a sober, Renaissance style. However, much of its original ornamentation and paintings were removed by Napoleonic troops in 1808.
Is Ara Christi Charterhouse a protected site?
Yes, Ara Christi Charterhouse was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural for Spain in 1996. This designation recognizes its significant cultural and historical value.
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