Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, Parla

The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, nestled in the picturesque town of Parla, Spain, is a delightful blend of historical significance and architectural charm. Known locally as Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, this venerable edifice stands as a testament to the town's rich cultural heritage and enduring faith. Its roots stretch back to the 16th century, and despite numerous reconstructions, it retains an aura of timeless elegance that continues to draw visitors from near and far.

The History of the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

The story of the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción begins in the early 16th century, when it was constructed to replace the old Church of Santa María de Parla, a Mudejar-style building that had fallen into disrepair. The new church was strategically located along the ancient royal road from Madrid to Toledo, now known as Calle Real. This location not only made it accessible but also placed it at the heart of the community's daily life.

The church's original design featured a single nave with side chapels, a south-facing main entrance, and a north-facing tower that was integrated into the presbytery. The most ancient part of the church that has survived to this day is the Gothic-style pentagonal apse, a striking feature that hints at the church's storied past. The church also housed a sacristy, a baptistery, and an ossuary on the epistle side, where burials took place until 1833.

Architectural Evolution

Over the centuries, the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción underwent several modifications. In the 17th century, the tower was enhanced with a bell chamber, and in 1522, Payo Barroso de Ribera, the eighth lord of Parla, commissioned the renowned architect and painter Juan de Borgoña to create the church's main altarpiece. This splendid piece of art was installed the following year, alongside the Barroso family crest, which was carved in stone on either side of the presbytery.

The church's surroundings also evolved, with the creation of a small plaza adorned with trees, known as Plaza de la Iglesia. This plaza, popularly called Plaza de la Fuente Nueva, featured a unique fountain built in 1623. The fountain, which no longer exists, served as both a water source and a lamppost, with a cross-shaped wrought iron structure that held two lanterns and two spouts for drinking water and watering animals.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the church continued to be embellished with numerous images and new altarpieces. In 1625, a clock was installed in the tower, and in 1664, four bells were blessed and placed in the tower's openings. The tower itself was redesigned in 1682 by Bartolomé Hurtado, who added a Baroque-style spire topped with a cross. Despite suffering minor damage during the War of Independence, the church remained a resilient symbol of the community's faith and perseverance.

20th Century Renovations

By the 20th century, the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción had fallen into disrepair once again, prompting a series of extensive renovations. The first phase of restoration occurred in the 1920s, followed by a second phase in the 1940s to repair damage from the Spanish Civil War. These renovations significantly altered the church's original design, resulting in the loss of its nave, sacristy, baptistery, and the quadrangular tower with its spire. In their place, a new elevated tower was constructed above the main entrance, featuring a bell chamber with three bells and a central cross in relief. The materials used for these renovations included brick and stone, giving the church a distinctive appearance.

During this period, much of the church's interior contents were lost, including the Churrigueresque altarpiece from the 18th century and the Baroque altarpiece designed by Juan Gómez de Mora in 1617. However, the original baptismal font survived, and over the years, new religious artifacts and decorations were added to replenish the church's interior.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the church underwent further maintenance, focusing primarily on the apse. More recently, in 2020, additional interior renovations were carried out, including the installation of a new altarpiece designed in a style reminiscent of the lost original by Juan de Borgoña, crafted by Artemartínez.

Visiting the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

Today, the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción stands as a proud symbol of Parla's rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors are greeted by its striking facade, characterized by a harmonious blend of brick and stone, and the welcoming green doors that invite them to explore its sacred interior. The church's tranquil atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Spain's architectural and religious history.

As you step inside, take a moment to admire the Gothic apse, the only remaining part of the original 16th-century structure. The new altarpiece, a beautiful homage to the church's artistic past, stands as a testament to the community's dedication to preserving their heritage. The church's serene ambiance provides a perfect setting for reflection and appreciation of the centuries of history that have shaped this remarkable building.

In conclusion, the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción is not just a place of worship; it is a living monument to the resilience and faith of the people of Parla. Its walls echo with the stories of generations, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting this charming town. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this historic church is sure to leave a lasting impression.