Magdalena de la Cruz facts for kids
Magdalena de la Cruz (born 1487 – died 1560) was a Franciscan nun from Córdoba, Spain. For many years, many people believed she was a living saint. However, St. Ignatius Loyola always had doubts about her.
In 1543, Magdalena became very ill. She then admitted that her claims of having stigmata (marks like those of Jesus's wounds) and performing miracles were not true. In 1546, a special court called the Inquisition sentenced her. She was sent to live in a convent of her order forever. It is believed she spent her last days there, showing deep regret for her actions.
Early Life and Popularity
In the early 1500s, Magdalena was seen as a very holy person. Many believed she talked directly with God. Important people admired her. These included the head of the Franciscan Order, Fray Francisco de los Ángeles Quiñones. Also, Fray Francisco de Osuna, a famous writer, and Alonso Manrique, the archbishop of Seville, were among her followers.
When the future King Philip II was born in 1527, Magdalena's special clothes were sent. People hoped wrapping the baby in them would protect him from evil. In 1533, Magdalena was chosen to be the abbess (the leader) of her convent. At this time, she was very powerful and well-known.
Confession and Imprisonment
Magdalena made many false predictions and claimed to have visions and miracles. Finally, in 1546, the Inquisition in Cordoba put her on trial. She was sentenced to live in a convent in Andújar for the rest of her life.
According to some historical accounts, Magdalena confessed her actions to Pope Paul III. She admitted that she had been dishonest since she was twelve years old. She died in 1560, full of sadness and regret. It is said that after she confessed, the marks she claimed were stigmata disappeared. A Spanish document about her, kept in the British Museum, confirms her sentencing by the Inquisition on 3 May 1546.
Convent of Saint Isabel of the Angels
In Cordoba, there is a place called the Convent of Saint Isabel of the Angels (Spanish: Convento de Santa Isabel de los Ángeles). This convent is connected to Magdalena de la Cruz's story.
