Iglesia de San Miguel del Raval

The Church of San Miguel del Raval is one of the lesser-known Baroque gems of Ontinyent, tucked away in the maze of narrow lanes of the old Raval quarter, in the El Llombo area. Built by the prosperous guild of pelaires —the wool-cloth makers who brought life and wealth to the neighbourhood— it surprises visitors with the serenity of its interior and a historic organ that is its great treasure. It's a perfect stop for anyone wanting to step off the busier tourist trails.

History

The church was built between the 16th and 18th centuries over an earlier 14th-century hermitage, right in the heart of the artisan Raval. Its construction was driven by the pelaires guild, whose textile prosperity is reflected in the solidity and care of the building. The various construction phases explain the mix of solutions visible in its walls.

What to see

• The uniform mid-18th-century mural decoration, which wraps the interior in the coherent harmony typical of Baroque taste.
• Above all, the late-18th-century organ, a magnificent piece and the main reason to step inside.
• The web of Raval streets itself, best explored slowly.

Tips for your visit

As with many village churches, opening hours tend to follow the Mass schedule, so it's worth checking before you go. Combine it with the rest of the old town and the imposing Campanar de Santa María, and plan your day with our guide to pretty villages near Valencia.