Granada Charterhouse

Granada Charterhouse, known in Spanish as Cartuja de Granada, is a historic Carthusian monastery located in Granada, Spain. It stands as one of the most exceptional examples of Spanish Baroque architecture, particularly admired for its interior, which presents a stark contrast to its more subdued exterior.

History and Construction

The monastery's origins trace back to a decision made in 1458 by the community of the monastery of Santa María de El Paular. Construction commenced in 1506 on land transferred by Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, the Great Captain, although the current site differs from the initial cession. Works were restarted in 1516 and continued for three centuries, though the initial project was not fully realized. Significant damage occurred in 1842 when the cloister and monk's cells were destroyed, followed by the complete destruction of the priory house in 1943. The monastery was inhabited by monks until their expulsion in 1835.

Architectural Significance and Features

The charterhouse is celebrated for its intricate ornamentation and complex geometric interior, making it a masterpiece of the Churrigueresque style. Key architectural elements include the cover from the sixteenth century in Plateresque style, the Claustrillo from the seventeenth century with Doric arches, and the Refectory featuring Gothic crossing with aristones and half-point arches, decorated with works by Juan Sánchez Cotán. The Chapel of Legos, built between 1517 and 1519, exhibits late Gothic style and is adorned with paintings by Vicente Carducho. The church construction began in the mid-sixteenth century and concluded in 1602. The sacristy, built from 1727 to 1764, is a quintessential example of the final phase of Spanish Baroque, featuring a dome painted by Tomás Ferrer depicting St. Bruno and other founders of the Carthusian Order.

Artistic Collection

Granada Charterhouse houses an extensive collection of paintings, with works by Fray Juan Sánchez Cotán being particularly prominent. Other notable artistic contributions include paintings by Vicente Carducho in the Chapel of Legos and the Chapter hall, and an altarpiece in the Sala de San Pedro y San Pablo painted by Sánchez Cotán. The sacristy's dome also features significant fresco work.