Madrid Youth Day Features 500-Year-Old Monstrance

(July 20,2010) : The World Youth Day vigil with Pope Benedict XVI, on Aug. 20, 2011, will culminate with Eucharistic adoration, in which a famous Spanish monstrance will be used. The Arfe Monstrance, which is almost 500 years old and stands approximately nine feet tall, will be used next year in the main event of the world youth day in Madrid. This monstrance, covered with gold and silver, is used in the annual Corpus Christi procession through the streets of Toledo.
Francisco Portela, professor of art history at Madrid's University, said that it is "the best example of Spanish silversmith craft of all times," a press release from the youth day organizers reported. He added that "the occasion for which it is being brought to Madrid is very worthwhile."
Juan Sánchez, dean of the Cathedral of Toledo, where the masterpiece is usually housed, said, "We have gladly parted with the monstrance for the youth day celebration, thinking of the very great end it will serve."