CHURCH OF LA VERA CRUZ – Ornamentation

On entering the Church of la Vera Cruz the simplicity and plainness of its ornamentation causes an impact. Immediately, the observers look towards the central Christ, which hangs on the first beam. The altar emphasizes the reliquary that contains the relics of the True Cross without being pretentious.

In the same manner as in the presbytery, two niches can be appreciated that show the images of Joseph and Mary, both with Baby Jesus in their arms, possibly made of polychrome wood. The altar is also accompanied by two figures of angels in polychrome wood.

On the right, going from the entrance towards the presbytery, a large painting with the image of Christ can be seen on the corner, where the caption Cristo confío en ti (Christ I trust you) can be read. Then, there is a spiral staircase that goes up to the choir; close to the staircase there is a polychrome wood image of Saint Antonio de Padua; then, the confessionals can be seen and finally part of the paintings representing the Stations of the Holy Cross.

On the left, going from the entrance towards the presbytery, on the corner, is the Altar of Saint Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer, creator of Opus Dei; then, there are other paintings that represent the Stations of the Holy Cross and the Self Building of the Church of la Vera Cruz; after that, in a niche there is the plaster image of Santa Teresa de Los Andes; on the side of the niche, there is a photo of Saint Alberto Hurtado and, finally, there is the access to the lateral chapel.

In the upper stretches of the lateral walls, two large paintings can be observed; one is the portrait of the “Asunción de la Virgen” (the Ascension of the Virgin) and the other one is of Christ.