A Unique Pilgrimage: Viewing the Incorrupt Body

From May 11th to 25th, the Basilica of the Annunciation of Our lady of Carmen in Alba de Tormes, Salamanca, will host a momentous event: the public exhibition of the body of Santa Teresa de Jesús. This is an remarkable occasion, as her remains have not been displayed in this manner before, offering devotees and those interested in her life a unique opportunity for veneration.

Unveiling a Face from the Past: The reconstructed Bust

Adding to the meaning of this event is the recent unveiling of a bust that meticulously reconstructs the face of Santa Teresa. This remarkable achievement is the culmination of extensive research conducted after the opening of her sepulcher on august 28, 2024.

According to Miguel Ángel González, prior of the basilica, the reconstruction process involved a comprehensive analysis:

Radiographs, photographs, measures, dimensions, proportions were taken, and the University of Monas was sent to Australia.
miguel Ángel González,prior of the basilica

This data was then combined with a portrait painted during Santa Teresa’s lifetime by Fray Juan de la Miseria,a barefoot Carmelite friar,and a physical description written by Mother Maria de San José,a contemporary of the saint. The resulting terracotta bust was presented on March 28th, coinciding with the 510th anniversary of her birth.

A Glimpse into Her Character

The reconstructed face offers a tangible connection to the woman who defied the conventions of her time. González describes the bust as revealing:

A woman with very prominent cheekbones,a wide face,the full mouth,the resounding nose that demonstrates at the same time sweetness and character.
Miguel Ángel González, prior of the basilica

The bust portrays Santa Teresa at the age of 50, a period of profound human and spiritual maturity.At this stage in her life, she was actively involved in establishing the first convent of the Carmelite Reform and had already penned significant works, including the El escorial Codex and writings on the way of perfection.As Cicero famously said, The face is the mirror of the soul. The bust reflects both her spiritual depth and her strong character. Furthermore, the testimony of Mother Maria de San José confirms that Santa Teresa had black eyes.

The Miracle of preservation: An Incorrupt Body

Adding to the mystique surrounding Santa Teresa is the remarkable state of preservation of her body. Scientific research has confirmed that her remains have undergone no chemical treatment and yet remain exceptionally well-preserved. This phenomenon, often referred to as incorruptibility, has been observed in several saints and is considered by some to be a sign of divine grace.

Prior González elaborated on the location of her relics:

Most of the body is here in Alba de Tormes, in the sepulcher, in the Basilica of the Annunciation. Also in Alba de Tormes, the left arm and heart that for historical reasons are outside the sepulcher. some other major relics, such as the left hand and right foot, are also out. The left hand in Ronda in Malaga and the right foot in Rome… according to the research of scientists, in a state of natural conservation, without having done no chemical treatment at no time, in an remarkable state of conservation.
Miguel Ángel González, prior of the basilica

Invitation to Encounter Santa Teresa

The exhibition of Santa Teresa’s body and the unveiling of her reconstructed face provide a rare and powerful opportunity to connect with this influential figure. Miguel Ángel González extends an invitation to all to participate in the events and celebrations planned from May 11th to 25th.He also encourages those seeking wisdom and guidance to explore her writings, stating, We can always approach her in her masterful writings where we find wisdom for all.