Shrine of the Incarnation, Religious sanctuary near Calatrava la Vieja, Spain
The Shrine of the Incarnation is a church building in Carrión de Calatrava featuring a central nave dedicated to the Virgin, surrounded by garden areas and recreational spaces. The complex includes outdoor barbecue facilities, a bar, and gathering areas designed for religious ceremonies.
The building originates from a 10th century mosque, evident from a horseshoe arch with alfiz on the northern facade. This Islamic architecture reflects the site's earlier religious history before its transformation into a Christian sanctuary.
The site hosts a local procession where residents ceremonially move the statue between the shrine and the village according to an annual calendar. This tradition ties religious devotion directly to community practices that have shaped daily rhythms for generations.
The shrine sits several kilometers from Carrión de Calatrava and is accessible by local roads. When visiting, keep in mind that the grounds are subject to religious observances and hours may vary based on local celebrations.
Inside the shrine stands a collection of wax figures dedicated to prayers and healings, displayed in a dedicated gallery section. These personal offerings document generations of local devotion practices and form a rare material record of private religious experiences.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
