Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Ermitana

Set right beside the castle, at the top of Peñíscola's old town, the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Ermitana is a small Baroque church that many visitors walk straight past on their way to the fortress. It's worth pausing: this is the town's most beloved church, dedicated to its patron saint, and admission is free.

History

The chapel was built between 1708 and 1714, in the middle of the Baroque period, at a time when Peñíscola held a strategic role. That is why its sober, elegant façade displays military motifs and the coat of arms of Philip V, an unusual feature for a church and a reminder of the context in which it went up. Crowned by a simple square bell tower, it sits comfortably among the stonework of the walled enclosure.

What to see

• The Baroque façade with the royal coat of arms and military emblems.
• The square bell tower, visible from several streets of the old town.
• The intimate, gathered interior, dedicated to Peñíscola's patron saint.

Tips for your visit

The chapel sits right next to the Papa Luna castle, so it makes sense to combine the two. Climb the whitewashed lanes slowly and enjoy the sea views along the way. Since entry is free, it's a good spot for a quiet pause away from the bustle of the seafront promenade. To plan the day, take a look at our day-trip ideas.