Exconvent de la Mercé, Burriana

In the heart of Burriana, a charming town in the province of Castellón, Spain, stands the Exconvent de la Mercé, a historical gem that has seamlessly blended its rich past with modern utility. Known locally as the Exconvento de la Merced, this former convent is now a vibrant cultural center, drawing visitors with its fascinating history, architectural beauty, and dynamic cultural offerings.

A Journey Through Time

The origins of the Exconvent de la Mercé date back to the late 16th century. In 1594, the local municipality granted the Order of the Mercedarians the hermitage of San Mateo. This marked the beginning of the convent’s construction, with the Mercedarians adding various monastic buildings to the existing hermitage. The convent’s initial purpose was to serve as a religious retreat and place of worship for the Mercedarian monks.

As time progressed, the convent saw significant changes. By the 18th century, the decision was made to establish a College of Missionaries within its premises. This led to the demolition of the original San Mateo hermitage in 1736, making way for the construction of a new church. The building process underwent several alterations, with the definitive project being finalized in 1803. The new church and convent, designed by the academic architect Francisco Ferrer, were completed between 1805 and 1808.

From Convent to Cultural Hub

The Exconvent de la Mercé has witnessed its fair share of historical upheavals. During the Spanish War of Independence in 1812, the convent was evacuated, and its church was repurposed as stables for the French troops under Marshal Suchet. Following the war, the seminarians returned, but their stay was short-lived. In 1836, the convent was permanently vacated due to the Spanish confiscation process, and by 1842, it was handed over to the local municipality.

Over the years, the convent’s buildings served various purposes, including a public school, teacher residences, municipal storage, and a public library. However, many of its structures fell into disrepair. Recognizing its historical and cultural significance, the convent was declared a Provincial Historic-Artistic Monument in 1982. This declaration marked the beginning of its transformation into a cultural center.

Architectural Marvels

The Exconvent de la Mercé is a splendid example of neoclassical architecture, with its church being a particular highlight. The church features a rectangular plan with a Latin cross inscribed within it. The central nave stands out for its impressive width and height, flanked by narrower side naves. The central nave and the transept arms are covered with barrel vaults and semicircular lunettes, while the transept and side chapels boast a dome supported by pendentives.

Visitors can access the church directly from the street through a stone lintel door adorned with neoclassical moldings or from within the convent. The church’s bell tower, with its square base and slate spire, is located in the penultimate section of the church. This architectural elegance is complemented by the convent’s serene cloister, which has been meticulously restored to preserve its historical charm.

A Cultural Renaissance

The Exconvent de la Mercé’s transformation into a cultural center began in earnest in 1990. Extensive renovations were undertaken to adapt the building to its new role. These improvements included the unification of facades, the restoration of the upper gallery of the cloister, and the reorganization of interior spaces to meet contemporary needs.

Today, the Exconvent de la Mercé, also known as the Centro Cultural La Mercé, is a bustling hub of cultural activity. It hosts a wide range of events, including art exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and educational workshops. The center plays a vital role in the cultural life of Burriana, providing a platform for local artists and fostering a sense of community.

Visiting the Exconvent de la Mercé

For visitors to Burriana, the Exconvent de la Mercé offers a unique blend of historical exploration and cultural enrichment. As you step through its doors, you are transported back in time, walking in the footsteps of Mercedarian monks and witnessing the architectural splendor of centuries past. At the same time, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene that thrives within its walls.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking to experience the cultural heartbeat of Burriana, the Exconvent de la Mercé is a must-visit destination. Its storied past, combined with its dynamic present, makes it a true treasure of Castellón, inviting all who enter to discover the rich tapestry of its history and culture.