“Un Dios en tramoya”. Influence of theatrical festivities in the architecture of Imperial College of Madrid

Abstract

The Society of Jesus was a key element in the political, cultural and scientific development of the Spanish court in the Modern Age. The Order’s exploitation of literary and artistic feats reached an remarkable level of sophistication by means of employing diverse constructive and ornamental resources —mostly related to regal scenography— in the architecture of their new church in the Imperial College of Madrid. Consecrated spaces such as their church and chapels were given the role of sceneries for festivities, courtly solemnities and theatrical performances, which strengthened the ties of the Jesuits with the Royal Family and provided them with a good part of their prestige in Madrid.