Ermita de Santa Llúcia i Santa Bàrbara

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Church FREE

Alto de Santa Llúcia, colina al noroeste del casco urbano, Xàbia

Crowning the highest hill beside the town, this simple 15th-16th-century hermitage is the only one of Xàbia's ancient chapels still in active worship. Of austere single-nave design, its real draw is the sweeping panorama over the valley, the Montgó massif and the Mediterranean. Every 13 December hundreds of people make the pilgrimage up to it to celebrate Saint Lucy, rounded off with the traditional hot-chocolate gathering.

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Crowning the highest hill beside the town, the Ermita de Santa Llúcia i Santa Bàrbara is one of the most charming corners of Xàbia. Medieval in origin (15th-16th centuries), it is the only one of the town's old hermitages that still holds active worship, and the real reward awaits those who climb up to the Alto de Santa Llúcia: a sweeping panorama over the valley, the Montgó massif and the Mediterranean Sea.

What to see

The building follows the model of the Valencian rural hermitage: a simple, whitewashed structure with an austere single nave and little decorative ornament. What makes it memorable is its setting. From the esplanade at the top, the views open up in every direction, making it an unbeatable natural viewpoint for understanding the geography of the Marina Alta region.

The Santa Lucía pilgrimage

Every 13 December, hundreds of people climb up to the hermitage on pilgrimage to celebrate Santa Lucía. The gathering culminates in the traditional chocolatada (hot chocolate), a much-loved moment that brings locals and visitors together at the top of the hill.

Tips for your visit

The climb is on foot along a sloping path; wear comfortable shoes.
Go at sunrise or sunset for the best light over the Montgó and the sea.
If you come in December, check the time of the pilgrimage to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Pair it with a visit to the old town of Xàbia or its coves.

Frequently asked questions

What can you see from the Ermita de Santa Llúcia i Santa Bàrbara?

It crowns the highest hill next to the town and offers an open panorama over the valley, the Montgó massif and the Mediterranean Sea.

How old is the chapel and is it still in use?

It is of medieval origin (15th–16th centuries) and is the only one of Xàbia's old chapels that still holds regular worship.

Is there a festival or pilgrimage at this chapel?

Yes, every 13 December hundreds of people walk up on pilgrimage to celebrate Saint Lucy with the traditional hot-chocolate gathering.

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