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This venue rates four stars because of what it is, its architecture, its history, the artwork in it and the obvious care taken to preserve it. Unless one is particularly interested in religious history and art, however, it is a second tier attraction compared to all the other great venues in Madrid. If you only have a few days, go to the Prado, Thyssen, Reina Sofia and other big things first. Then, if you have time, visit this. If you do decide to go, be sure to go to the official website and buy your ticket(s) there. That will guarantee you a place on the scheduled guided tours (the only way a visit is possible, unless you have some special connection or professional purpose and have made arrangements well in advance). Otherwise, you will be standing in line outside, only to be told that all tickers/places are gone when you make it to the door. Tour groups (about 15-20 people each) are closely shepherded on a set route and are all in Spanish, unless you get a guide who is kind enough to answer questions in English (or any other language she/he may know). Don't think of trying to sneak pictures. The rear shepherd is eagle eyed (and ours was certainly intimidating as well). So, if you want pictures and want to understand all of what you are seeing, buy the guidebook available in the little shop area before the tour starts. You can also buy postcards in the same place. Much easier, less stressful and certainly more respectful of the working convent that it still is. The guide book will be less expensive on site: I've looked for one on eBay and Amazon and the asking prices are prohibitive. …
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Date of experience: April 2017
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Cervnates tomb is located in the Convento de las Trinitarias Descalzas de San Ildefonso on Calle Lope de Vega. It is not easy seeing his tomb because hours of operation are very very limited. The Church only allows you to visit the tomb for the half hour before a mass, so you need to go there, talk to the woman in charge in the office, find out when the mass is happening and when you can see the tomb. It is well worth a visit if you are a fan of the writing of Miguel de Cervantes and, especially, a fan of Don Quixote. Here is a link to details about opening hours (http://www.gomadrid.com/sights/convento-trinitarias-descalzas.html) which says, "The nuns in the convent live within a closed order, and the church is only open during Mass, which is at 9.30am on weekdays, 7.30pm on Saturdays and 10.00am and 12.00am on Sundays."…
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Date of experience: August 2015
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