Ermita del Cristo de la Vega (Hermitage of Cristo de la Vega), Toledo

The Hermitage of Cristo de la Vega is an ancient and historic hermitage located in the Vega Baja district of Toledo. The hermitage was built on the ruins of the Visigothic Basílica de Santa Leocadia during the 7th century, making it one of the oldest buildings in the city. The name "Vega" refers to the plain where the building is located, which was once the old cemetery area of the city.

The vicinity of the hermitage is notable for being the burial place of several saints, including Saint Idelfonsus, Saint Leocadia, and Saint Eugenius. However, their remains were later removed from the area. During the Visigothic period, the "Councils of Toledo" were held in the area, which were important ecclesiastical assemblies of bishops who deliberated on religious matters and legislation.

The Ermita del Cristo de la Vega has had a long and complex history. The mudejar apse is the only part of the original structure that still remains intact. The rest of the building was destroyed during the Spanish War of Independence. However, between 1816 and 1826, the building was reconstructed, and a new image of Christ was added, giving it its present structure. Since then, the hermitage has been used under the invocation of the Cristo de la Vega.

Inside the hermitage, the presbytery is dominated by a stunning sculpture of Christ. This sculpture depicts Christ with one hand free of the crucifixion nails, which has made it the hero of the famous legend recorded by Zorrilla as "A good judge, a better witness". Visitors to the hermitage can admire the beauty of the building's architecture, as well as the history and religious significance of this ancient place of worship.