The hermitage of San José and Santa Rita is located in a privileged place at the top of Los Berengueles. It was built by architect Francisco Prieto Moreno in the 1970s. You can find it perched in the pines near the Punta de La Mona lighthouse, tucked between the bays of Almuñécar to the east, and La Herradura to the west. It is a nice area for reflection, meditation, and organized events.
What is an Ermita or Hermitage?
An Ermita (ehr-mee-tah), is typically a quiet place of worship, prayer or meditation. It is also known as a place of pilgrimage, a shrine, or a small chapel. In the case of the hermitage of San José and Santa Rita, it is an outdoor area for reflection and thought, as well as a small chapel.
Hermitage of San José & Santa Rita
Hermitage of San José and Santa Rita is nestled in the pine trees in the urbanization of Punta de La Mona. This is the hilly point that jets out to the sea between Almuñécar and La Herradura. The entire area is more of an upscale neighborhood, filled with luxury villas and townhomes. It isn’t as densely populated, so you get a feel for nature in Punta de la Mona as well. It is just a short walk from El Faro (The lighthouse), but be warned there will be some stairs to climb to reach the lighthouse from this path.
This hermitage was built by the architect Francisco Prieto Moreno in the 1970s, with the presence of the archbishop of Granada, Emilio Benavent Escuin. It was created to provide a peaceful environment, for reflection, meditation and to be with your own thoughts. The entire hermitage is surrounded by pine trees, which were brought to the area from the Cubillas Reservoir. The Prieto Moreno La Ermita Foundation is the current responsible for the management of this space.
Prieto Moreno collaborated with many others to complete this hermitage, including sculptors, craftsmen, and construction workers. They all dedicated their time to this project so this place of worship could be completed. It is an open area for all to enjoy. You will not only find a small chapel on site, but there is also a bell tower and an interesting sculpture. You will have some views of the Marina del Este and limited views to the west through the trees, so it is nice for sunset. On occasion, there are small cultural events held here, with exhibitions, musical events and more.
Follow the link to learn more about other places of worship in Almuñécar and La Herradura.
El Faro de La Herradura
While you are in the area, you may as well walk up to El Faro de La Herradura (lighthouse) too.
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