LAS CARBONERAS CONVENT MADRID

It is difficult to find this convent. From Plaza de la Villa, step into Calle del Codo and the door is on the right. The nuns belong to a closed order known as the Carboneras (coal cellars), because their painting of the Virgin Mary was found in a coal cellar. The convent is better known in Madrid for selling homemade duLces (biscuits) and sweetmeats. This tradition dates back to the 16th century when Santa Teresa of Avila distributed treats made from sugar and egg yolk to the poor. Ring a bell for service; an elaborate serving hatch ensures that the privacy of the nuns is not disturbed.