Church of Santa María, Gothic parish church in Villena, Spain.
The Church of Santa María is a parish church in Villena featuring a single nave covered by Gothic ribbed vaults. Pillars throughout the interior are decorated with Renaissance relief sculptures and semi-columns that create visual rhythm in the space.
The church was built in the 16th century on the site of a former Muslim mosque. It suffered damage during the Spanish Civil War and underwent major restoration work in the middle of the 20th century.
The church serves the Villena community as a focal point for religious life and local gatherings throughout the year. Visitors can observe how the building remains central to the town's spiritual and social activities.
The church is open to visitors during regular weekday hours, though you should check local information before visiting. Like most active places of worship, it is best visited outside of service times, and respectful dress and behavior are expected.
The bell tower stands partially separated from the main structure and houses the Campanica de la Virgen bell. This bell was moved from the earlier Torre del Orejón tower, showing how the site has been reshaped over time.
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