Hermitage of the Virgen de Alarcos

The Hermitage of the Virgin of Alarcos is a Gothic chapel featuring a basilica layout with three naves inside. Octagonal limestone pillars support pointed arches that structure the interior space throughout.

This chapel emerged following the Battle of Alarcos in 1195, after which the region experienced a period of occupation. The site became reestablished as a religious place after major political changes in the territory.

The Virgin of Alarcos holds special meaning for local devotion that becomes visible during springtime celebrations. Pilgrims gather here to participate in a tradition that connects them to centuries of local religious practice.

The chapel sits roughly 10 kilometers from Ciudad Real and is reached through an opening in the medieval castle wall. A visit works best when planned ahead since the rural location requires navigating country roads.

The southwest wall displays a stone rosette window with 19 lobes that later inspired the cathedral design in Ciudad Real. This architectural detail proved influential enough that builders adopted the pattern for a much larger scale.