Saint Teresa of Avila continues to fascinate both the Catholic faithful and people from various walks of life. From fashion designer Manolo Blahnik to dictator Francisco Franco, who kept a relic of her hand on his desk, the Spanish saint's influence has endured through the centuries.
Revered throughout Spain,** her image has been immortalised in masterpieces such as "The Ecstasy" by the Italian sculptor Bernini and a portrait by Rubens or on this infamous wood carving by El Greco.
