This book, by prolific Carmelite writer Rafael María López Melús, recognizes the 400 years of the Carmelite monastery and church in the beautiful city of Bajo Aragón where he spent 2 years of his childhood and where his Carmelite vocation began.

Unlike many other places of the "Desamortizacion" of 1835 in Spain, in Alcañia both structures were conserved even with various owners.

The monastery which for 268 years was home to as many as 32 religious at one time, now beautifully modernized, houses the city courts.

The church, which always continued to be a place of worship, is today open for religious services, including many wedding ceremonies.

Everywhere there are Carmelite symbols and wonderful reminders of yesterday.

The façade was considered so beautiful that it merited reproduction in the Exposición del Pueblo Español (Exposition of the Spanish Town) celebrated in Barcelona in 1929, even as it would be viewed today. There are the tourist brochures today that recalls this church’s history with the Carmelites.

The book, attractively edited and with numerous illustrations, contains 13 interesting chapters totaling 170 pages and 312 notes.

Available from: Ayuntamiento de Alcañiz
© 2004
ISBM 84-923557-5-1