Benavente - San Juan del Mercado

Historically, the town of Benavente owes its importance to an important crossroad from Roman times.

During the rule of the Swabians, it was known as Ventosa until the 12th century, when the town took the name of Malgrat. This name appears in the first written testimony of Benavente and is mentioned in a royal donation by Queen Urraca in 1115. At this time, the area was repopulated by the Leonese monarchs. Alfonso IX and Alfonso X continued to contribute to the growth of Benavente through privileges and grants. When Alfonso IX died, the city was the scene of the final union of the crowns of León and Castile in the Concordia of Benavente. It later fell into disrepair until 1285, but Sancho IV promoted its expansion and attracted new settlers.

In 1387, the English and Portuguese forces of the Duke of Lancaster Benavente attempted to besiege Benavente, but the besiegers were defeated in the attempt. - Today Benavente has about 18,000 inhabitants.

The church was founded in 1181 by Aldonza, daughter of Count Osorio Martínez and Teresa Fernández. It became a branch of the “Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem” (“Order of Malta”), hence the dedication. The church is 62 m long and 24 m wide.

The tympanum of the portal shows the Magi adorating in Bethlehem. Joseph, as always, sits apart and is tired. The Star of Bethlehem is above Mary's head.