To truly comprehend the Crypt of Fray Leopoldo and its significance for the city of Granada, a brief exploration of its central figure’s life is crucial:
Originally born as Francisco Tomás, Fray Leopoldo is known for his acts of kindness and charity that spanned the streets of Granada for around half a century.
A native of Alpandeire, nestled between the mountain ranges of Málaga and Cádiz, he was ordained as a Capuchin monk, wholly devoted to religious seclusion. Nevertheless, in 1914, with his permanent settlement in Granada, the legend that catapulted him to fame, making him the centrepiece of the second most visited monument after the Alhambra, began.
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A Monk’s Life
Fray Leopoldo was an almsman monk. His life was dedicated to traversing the city’s streets, engaging with the populace, collecting, and then distributing alms to the destitute. He continued this benevolent activity until three years before his death in 1956, earning a reputation as a charitable man, intrinsically good and simple, embodying humility and attentiveness. His sanctity was such that he was beatified in 2010 and is attributed with a miracle of healing.
The Crypt
The Crypt, resplendent with 10 graphite paintings in perfect harmony with the altar, brings the essence of Fray Leopoldo’s life into sharp relief.
Each painting depicts a virtue or Christian event linked with episodes from the monk’s life. There is also a reproduction of the cell where he lived, complete with personal items like his habit, rosary, and sandals.
The vaulted dome of the crypt carries the text of Ave Maria – Fray Leopoldo used to pray it three times for absolution – reflecting the religious quotations found in other Nasrid monuments.
His tomb, set within a wall repeating the phrase ‘Peace and Good’, encapsulates the creed adopted by the friar.
Although the Crypt witnesses a surge in visitors every 9th of February, the date of Fray Leopoldo’s death, increased footfall is observed on the 9th of each month.
Location and Access
The museum and crypt of Fray Leopoldo is located at Divina Pastora Street, number 11.
Given its close proximity to the Triumph Gardens, access is possible either on foot or by public transportation.
Nearby bus stops include line 4 – stop at Constitution Avenue 4 or Triumph –, 8, 11, 21, 33, N1, and N3.
The Granada Metropolitan stop, Caleta, followed by a 10-minute walk, is another viable option.
Visiting Hours
The visiting hours for the crypt housing the body of Blessed Fray Leopoldo of Alpandeire run from Monday to Sunday, 8:30 to 13:15 and 16:30 to 20:00 hours.
Tickets to the Crypt of Fray Leopoldo
Entrance to the Crypt Museum of Fray Leopoldo is free of charge.