Castillo-Mezquita Ermita de la Virgen de Gracia, Castle and mosque sanctuary at Sierra de Gracia, Spain
The Castillo-Mezquita Ermita de la Virgen de Gracia is a fortified religious complex atop Sierra de Gracia in Archidona, featuring defensive walls, the Sun Gate, and a water cistern. The site combines a mosque and chapel structure within what was once a fortress.
The mosque was built in the 9th century as an important religious and administrative site, then converted into a chapel under Christian rule. This transformation reflects the religious and political shifts that reshaped the region over centuries.
The structure blends Islamic and Christian elements in its layout, with original columns and spatial design from the Muslim period still visible throughout. Visitors can observe how these two traditions coexist in the physical space and in the way the sanctuary functions today.
Access to the site is via a narrow, winding road with limited parking at the top, requiring careful navigation on steep sections. Opening times vary by season, so visitors should check ahead to confirm access is available.
The interior preserves features of both faiths, including horseshoe arches supported by Roman-era columns and an old minaret structure integrated into the bell tower. This layering shows how different periods coexist within a single building.
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