— the famous light wine, different variations of which can be tasted in different parts of the country — Sangria;
— the fiery dance known all over the world — flamenco;
— magnificent beaches that welcome millions of tourists every year.
Bullfighting, marvelous architecture and an abundance of national festivals should definitely be added to the list. The ski destination stands out, which makes the country suitable for year-round visits.
If there is a desire and need to combine several activities and destinations in a trip, there is no better place to find. Even if it is about such a serious event as a wedding.
When to go to Spain?
Based on the temperature regime, the choice of time to travel to the country is practically unlimited. Spain is one of the warmest countries in Europe, where the sun shines almost nine months a year, and in winter the coast rarely gets cold to zero degrees Celsius. For the most comfortable stay, you should choose spring or fall, as summer in the central part of the country is very hot and humid.
Spain is a country of the Catholic faith
Most Spaniards are so zealous Catholics that they may love the Pope more than their own. But this is not to say that it is impossible to find a place in the country where an Orthodox wedding ceremony will be held for a couple. It is worth noting that Catholic churches are almost universally willing to hold a showy ceremony mock marriage, but such a wedding will have no power and will only resemble a beautiful wedding.
At some point in Spanish history, the country began to receive a huge number of immigrants, most of whom were from Western Europe or the former Soviet Union. This is what created the need to build Orthodox churches in the country. To date, there are not many capital buildings, although as many as four Orthodox churches have their parishioners and offices in Spain.
Total freestanding large temples in the country three. There are about half a dozen so-called house temples and parishes, which work only from time to time. Therefore, having decided to hold a wedding ceremony in Spain, it is worth to decide in advance on the time and place.
The Church of Archangel Michael in Altea
The church is located near Valencia, in the town of Altea on a mountain on the Costa Blanca. The temple is spread out in a picturesque place and is made in the style of traditional old Russian architecture. It is one of the youngest temples in Spain. Its construction began in 1997 and was finished 5 years later. The structure is made entirely of wood.
The temple is built in the fort style, it has five domes and an octagonal belfry. The interior of the church is constantly replenished with icons and traditional decorations. The church is not open daily, services are held on weekends and holidays. The Church of Archangel Michael is considered a symbol of Russian Orthodoxy in Spain.
Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Barcelona
The building of this church can safely be called the oldest Orthodox church in Spain. However, Orthodox services have been held there only since 2011. The building was erected in the early 20 th year for the needs of the monastic Catholic brotherhood. After a while the church fell into disrepair and was abandoned, after which the Russian Orthodox Church agreed with the Spanish authorities on the lease. Soon the church was remodeled and now it is one of the permanent churches in the country.
The peculiarity of this church is its architecture. The building was constructed in the Neo-Romantic style and bears little resemblance to a traditional Orthodox church. This, however, does not affect the interior decoration — the space of the temple looks open and bright. It is worth noting that the Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary houses relics of saints and ancient icons.
Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Madrid
The temple is considered to be the youngest in the country, it was built only in 2013. At the same time, the decision to build it was made back in 2009. The church is built in Neo-Byzantine style. The building is a standard construction with five domes. On the territory of the temple there is a room for accommodation of pilgrims. In the Church of St. Mary Magdalene services and rites are held regularly.
Church marriage ceremony in Spain
When it comes to getting married in one of the Spanish Orthodox churches, one thing you need to know is that before the ceremony, you need to contact the rector of the temple or the priest of the parish so that he can make sure that the couple is serious. The good thing about this is that you don’t have to go for a preliminary interview months or weeks in advance, a phone call is enough.
The couple must be married and baptized for the ceremony to take place. Two witnesses are required and they must not be married to each other. However, witnesses can be found just before the ceremony among the congregation. Before the sacrament itself, the couple must observe a fast from midnight until morning. The rite is held after the morning service, the attendance of which is obligatory for those getting married. It is also necessary to attend confession and communion. At the end of the ceremony, which lasts from 40 minutes to an hour and a half, the couple is given a certificate valid in Russia and other Orthodox countries.
Church marriage in Spain is a beautiful, solemn rite, which can be held not only in large churches and temples, but also in house parishes. You can find out more details from the managers of our company, who will organize a wedding in Spain at the highest level!
