Meet the face of Saint Teresa of Jesus, a mystical figure from the 16th century. Researchers used science and historical records to recreate her look.
Professor Jennifer Mann from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, led the project. She modeled Saint Teresa’s face when she was around 50 years old. The result is a serene and harmonious face.
This project started in August 2024 when Saint Teresa’s tomb was opened in Alba de Tormes, Spain. The goal was to learn more about this important figure in the Catholic Church.
On December 28, 2024, a video was projected from the Basilica of the Assumption to show Saint Teresa’s face on a terracotta bust. This event happened simultaneously in Salamanca, Rome, and Australia.
The basilica is where Saint Teresa’s body, heart, and left arm are kept. It’s the same place where she passed away in October 1582.
Mann combined all the data she had, including measurements, radiographs, and paintings. She also used a description by Mother María de San José, who lived with Saint Teresa.
The result is a face that seems peaceful and genuine. Saint Teresa’s own veil, wimple, and habit were added, inspired by paintings from the time.
According to the prior of the Discalced Carmelites in Alba de Tormes, Miguel Ángel González, this project brought together science, faith, and devotion. It shows the physical and spiritual sides of Saint Teresa.
Mother María de San José described Saint Teresa as very beautiful, even in her old age. She said her face was not ordinary, but special.
This description was key to the project. The researchers also used a study done in Australia on Saint Teresa’s mummified remains by Italian anthropologist Luigi Capasso.
The prior of Alba de Tormes said that Saint Teresa’s face shows “deep peacefulness, a sense of interior serenity.” It’s a face that invites you to meet her and connect with others.
The provincial father, Francisco Sánchez, reminded everyone that the goal of this project was to get to know Saint Teresa better. This was possible thanks to the care of the Carmelite mothers in Alba de Tormes, who have looked after her remains since 1582.