Alright, you're currently approaching the Church of Saint Mary Major, also known as the Hermitage of San Blas! As you walk, keep an eye to your left. The church is situated at the foot of the castle and is framed by its historical Gothic architecture.
Now, let me paint you a picture: picture a beautiful, rustic church with a single nave covered by a wooden ceiling supported by diaphragm arches. The church's structure goes way back to the 13th century, but it was expanded in the 15th century and got a facelift in the 18th century. You’re standing in front of a building that’s seen centuries pass by!
Declared a Cultural Interest Site on September 28, 2007, it has this fancy Spanish Ministry of Culture identifier: RI-510012138. Fancy, right?
This old parish church has an intriguing architectural style typical of the reconquista period, featuring a single nave with a wooden framework resting on those striking diaphragm arches. It stretches out in four sections with chapels nestled between the buttresses, and a unique trapezoidal apse that adds a twist to the design.
Take a look inside-note the pointed diaphragm arches that separate the sections; some of them are a bit askew due to renovations over time. The lateral chapels are accessed via round arches, and a couple of them feature ribbed vaults, while the rest have vaulted ceilings. Look closely at the wooden ceiling of the trapezoidal apse, and you’ll spot a depiction of the Virgin Mary flanked by two angels holding the village’s coat of arms.
Externally, marveled with Arab tiles; the nave is covered with a gabled roof, transitioning to a three-sided roof at the head. Oh, and those initial four segments match perfectly because they likely form part of the original construction in the 13th century, pieced together over time.
This little treasure served as the main local church until another church, dedicated to the Assumption of Our Lady, took over in the 16th century. Talk about being replaced by a younger model! Since then, it has seen various dedications until finally settling as the Hermitage of San Blas.
Enjoy soaking in the historical vibes of this marvelous church!
