Madrid's International Festival of Sacred Art Runs Through April 20

One of Europe's most distinctive classical music festivals is in full swing in Madrid. The 36th edition of the International Festival of Sacred Art (FIAS) runs through April 20, 2026, presenting Baroque liturgical music, sacred oratorios, and historically informed performances across the city's most beautiful churches, convents, and concert halls. This year's program centers on Johann Sebastian Bach — a Bach-heavy slate that includes the St. John Passion, the B-minor Mass, and lesser-known cantatas performed by international period-instrument ensembles.

FIAS has a cult following among early-music aficionados in Europe, and its venue selection is part of the appeal — Bach performed in a 17th-century Madrid convent hits differently than in a modern concert hall. The program pairs religious music with Holy Week timing, and many of the performances are free or offered at very accessible prices through the festival's partnership with cultural institutions.

If you're going: check the FIAS website for the nightly program — venues change by concert. Some churches have limited seating; arrive 30 minutes early. The festival runs alongside Holy Week liturgies in the main cathedrals.

Sources: Tourism Madrid, Madrid events calendar