Thousands flock to Spain for rare public viewing of Saint's relics

Over 90,000 pilgrims visited Alba de Tormes, Spain, from May 11 to 25 to venerate the incorrupt body of St. Teresa of Ávila. This marked only the third public exposition of her relics since her death on October 4, 1582.

The event took place at the Basilica of the Annunciation following a Vatican-authorized study confirming that St. Teresa's body has remained incorrupt since her death. The study began on August 28, 2024, as part of a process initiated in 2022 by Pope Francis.

A facial reconstruction was carried out by Australian professor Jennifer Mann using advanced techniques and descriptions from Mother Maria of St. Joseph's writings. Following this, the body was displayed publicly for veneration over a period of 15 days.

Esther Borrego, a professor at Complutense University of Madrid and director of the Mulier Fortis research project on St. Teresa’s literary legacy, emphasized the saint’s lasting impact as both a spiritual and literary figure. She noted how St. Teresa’s writings offer insights that continue to inspire diverse generations worldwide.

St. Teresa played a significant role during the Counter-Reformation by encouraging spiritual renewal and reforming the Carmelite order alongside St. John of the Cross. Her theological works such as "The Interior Castle" earned her recognition as a doctor of the church in 1970 by St. Paul VI.

Carmelite Father Manuel Diego described this veneration as highlighting what is essential about St. Teresa — her words and mystical experiences with God — noting that “two living portraits remain to know her: her books and her daughters, the Carmelite order.”

On May 24, a procession through Alba de Tormes marked the closing ceremony with an image of St. Teresa leading to a prayer vigil at the Basilica where her remains have been kept for centuries.

Father Miguel Márquez Calle presided over a solemn Mass on May 25 to officially close public veneration. He emphasized that relics connect us with saints' lives and messages while presenting Teresa as an inspiration against today's polarization.

The remains were returned to their resting place at Our Lady of Annunciation Monastery on May 26 after being carried in procession by Discalced Carmelite friars from around the world.

Rocio Franch Oviedo reports for OSV News from Madrid.