Santo Tomé

Toledo’s relatively humble Santo Tomé Church happens to be home to one of the world’s most famous paintings: The Burial of Count Orgaz, by El Greco. The star piece was commissioned for the church’s chapel, where the count is buried, and features the burial along with St. Augustine and St. Stephen. El Greco in fact appears in his creation as well, even though the event took place over a century prior to the painting.
The church dates back to the 12th century (when it was built atop a previous mosque) but was later reconstructed in the 14th century with the funds of the aforementioned Count Orgaz, who was a generous benefactor. The building’s tower is distinguished as being one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture in Toledo — take note of its typically Moorish horseshoe-shaped bell tower windows. Though Santo Tomé itself may not be among Toledo’s most impressive sights, it’s the famous painting and history behind it that continue to lure the masses to the church’s doors.

Practical Info

Santo Tomé is located in Toledo’s Jewish quarter, which sits west of the main cathedral.