Gilet, Spain — A serene monastery in northeastern Spain became the scene of a violent attack this past Saturday when an intruder assaulted seven monks, using a relic as his weapon. The Santo Espiritu del Monte Monastery in Gilet, a typically peaceful spiritual retreat, was violently disrupted, leaving the local community and religious followers across the region in shock.
The assailant, a 46-year-old Spanish national, reportedly proclaimed himself as Jesus Christ during the rampage. He attacked the Franciscan monks with a staff taken from a historic statue within the monastery. The attacks were not limited to this weapon; he also used a stick and a glass bottle, according to local authorities.
Salva Costa, the mayor of Gilet, described the attack as unprecedented and chaotic. “A lone individual barged into the monastery, assaulting the monks in their quarters one by one,” said Costa, who visited the site to assess the situation and provide support.
Three of the monks remain hospitalized with serious injuries, while one was discharged after receiving medical treatment. The monastery, home to seven monks, is a known locale of tranquility and reflection, making the violence even more shocking to the community.
The attacker managed to flee the scene by jumping over a perimeter fence and evaded capture for almost 24 hours before being apprehended by the police. The quiet town of Gilet is still reeling from the incident, coming just weeks after devastating floods hit the Valencia region, claiming more than 200 lives.
Investigators are exploring the possibility that the assailant was suffering from mental health issues at the time of the attack. This angle is consistent with the erratic nature of the intrusion and the bizarre proclamations made by the man during the assault.
The provincial superior of the monastery released a statement expressing sorrow and disbelief over the incident. “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the intrusion and assault on our brothers in this house of peace,” the statement read.
Local and regional authorities are stepping up security measures around religious sites in response to the attack, while community leaders are organizing support and counseling services for those affected.
As the investigation continues, the small community of Gilet and the broader religious community are coming together in support of the victims, hoping for a swift recovery for those injured and a return to peace and security for the historic monastery. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of even the most sacred spaces in society.