Santa Margarida Volcano, Extinct volcano in Santa Pau, Spain.
Description
The volcanic crater forms a nearly perfect circular depression measuring approximately 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) across with a flat floor surrounded by elevated rims of volcanic material. Vegetation covers the crater walls and floor, where grazing land and a Romanesque chapel are located.
History
Volcanic activity ceased about 11,000 years ago following several eruption phases that left tephra deposits across the surrounding area. During medieval times, the church was built inside the crater while the region became part of the Catalan counties and later saw agricultural development.
Culture
The church within the crater has drawn pilgrims since medieval times and serves the community as a spiritual site amid the volcanic landscape. Local traditions connect the volcano with religious festivals and regional customs that continue to this day.
Practical
Several marked hiking trails lead to the crater rim and offer different routes for exploring the geological formations. Access is free and the best visiting time is during spring or autumn when temperatures are comfortable and vegetation is at its fullest.
Did you know?
The structure within the crater is the only religious building of its kind inside a European volcanic crater. The church was constructed directly on the flat crater floor, making it a geologically and architecturally exceptional site.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Santa Pau).
Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa Natural Park
901 m
Croscat
1.4 km
Ermita de Santa Margarida de Sacot
59 m
Sant Miquel Sacot
819 m
Castell de Colltort
1.3 km
Rocanegra volcano
1.3 km
Can Tià vulcano
2.1 km
Can Ballestoles
2.3 km
Can Batlle
977 m
Santa Llúcia de Treinteres
1.1 km
Rectoria de Sant Miquel Sacot
819 m
Can Descolls
2.3 km
Antic Hospital de Santa Pau
2.3 km
Sant Roc de Santa Pau
2.3 km
Can Llúcia
1 km
Can Daniel
2.3 km
Lintel Can Rafelic
2.3 km
Cal Sintet
2.3 km
Can Sila (Santa Pau)
2.3 km
Mas de les Forques
996 m
Lintel Ca l'Ull
2.3 km
Lintel Can Pere Petit
2.3 km
Lintel in Can Mià
2.3 km
Can Prat de la Plaça
1.5 km
Llinda de Can Masdevall
875 m
Can Vila (Santa Pau)
478 m
La Barraca
2.2 km
Lint of Cal Sintet (Santa Pau)
2.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes