Convent of the Ascension of Our Lord

It is the oldest of the monasteries of Lerma. It was founded by the son of the Duke, D. Cristóbal and his wife Mariana de Padilla; being in charge of the works the master Pedro de Pedrosa. The Church of great simplicity, with Latin cross plan, simple altarpiece highlighting in the center of the same detail of the Ascension. The transept has a lowered vault, adorned with the coats of arms of the founders. Of admiration are the grandiose paintings of Bartolomé Carducho. In the lower part of the choir there is a magnificent reliquary, with sculptures made by Lesmes Fernández del Moral, with a beautiful recumbent Christ by Gregorio Fernández, one of the best image makers of the Castilian School. In 1650 the façade was added in which there are baroque touches that are not seen in any building in Lerma. On June 10, 1610 the Infanta Margarita Francisca, daughter of King Philip III, was baptized in the monastery. Until the end of 2010 it was inhabited by MM. Franciscan Poor Clares. Since that date they have been called: "IESU COMMUNIO", a new religious Institute under the protection of Pope Benedict XVI, maintaining the contemplative life. In their new charism, the evangelization of young people occupies a central place. They make delicious pastries that can be purchased at the monastery's bakery.