Santuario de la Virgen del Castillo

Crowning the hill that overlooks Cullera, beside the ruins of the castle, the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Castle is one of the town's most cherished landmarks. Its Neo-Byzantine silhouette, raised at the end of the 19th century, is recognisable from afar by its striking bell tower, topped with a coppery glazed-tile dome that gleams in the Mediterranean sun.

History

The sanctuary was built between 1891 and 1897 atop the hill, on a site with a long religious tradition. Its shrine houses a 15th-century image of the Virgin, patron saint of Cullera and the focus of local devotion. The complex also preserves a valuable collection of ceramic altarpieces from the 18th and 19th centuries, whose scenes recount the miracles attributed to the patron.

What to see

Beyond the interior, what most captivates visitors is the outdoor esplanade, a natural viewpoint over the landscape. From here you take in the sea, the mouth of the Júcar river and the market gardens that surround the town.

• The bell tower with its ceramic dome, a symbol of Cullera's skyline.
• The ceramic altarpieces that decorate the grounds.
• The panoramic views toward the coast and the river.

Tips for your visit

• The climb runs alongside Cullera Castle; combine both on the same walk.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water; the path is uphill.
• The views are especially beautiful at sunset.