Monestir dels Pares Carmelites del Desert de les Palmes, Carmelite monastery ruins in Benicàssim, Spain.
The Carmelite monastery consists of two parts: the remains of the original structure dating to the 17th century and a newer monastic building constructed later in a more protected location. The entire complex sits in the mountains above Benicàssim and is accessible via a mountain road.
The original monastery was founded in 1697 and stood for nearly a century before a powerful earthquake destroyed it in 1783. The friars then built a new monastery in a safer location, completing it in 1796.
The name 'Desert of Las Palmas' refers to the sparse mountainous terrain with scattered palms that once grew here. Visitors can still sense this landscape character when walking between the old ruins and the newer building.
Visit on dry days since the mountain road can become slippery after rain and the paths between the two structures are uneven. Wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection, as there is little shade on the grounds.
The friars have made a traditional herbal liqueur from local aromatic plants since the 19th century, originally created to support the community financially. This handcrafted drink remains known in the region today and is still produced using inherited recipes.
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