The best city hikes and walks in Laguna De San Benito

The Archpriestal Church of the Assumption in Almansa is an impressive historical and architectural monument. Located in the Plaza de Santa María, next to the Palace of the Counts of Cirat, this church was built in several stages from the 16th to the 19th century.

The patronage of this church - "Santa MARIA ASUNCION" or "Nuestra Señora de La Asunción" (in German-speaking countries it is called "Mariä Himmelfahrt") - refers to one of the many memorial or feast days in honor of the Mother of God Mary in the church year. It goes back to the feast of her bodily assumption into heaven, which the (Catholic) Church celebrates annually on August 15th. In Christian Orthodox churches the feast is celebrated under the name "Maria Entschläfung". In rural areas it is part of the local custom - depending on the region - that on this special day bundles of herbs are collected by the population and blessed in the festive service.

The patronage of this church - "Santa MARIA ASUNCION" or "Nuestra Señora de La Asunción" (in German-speaking countries it is called "Mariä Himmelfahrt") - refers to one of the many memorial or feast days in honor of the Mother of God Mary in the church year. It goes back to the feast of her bodily assumption into heaven, which the (Catholic) Church celebrates annually on August 15th. In Christian Orthodox churches the feast is celebrated under the name "Maria Entschläfung". In rural areas it is part of the local custom - depending on the region - that on this special day bundles of herbs are collected by the population and blessed in the festive service.

The Coloma Park, formerly known as Mariana Pineda Park, is an emblematic space in Almansa. Its history is intertwined with the evolution of the city and the old Coloma Factory, which was one of the most important footwear factories of the early 20th century and an economic engine for Almansa. If you ever visit Almansa, I invite you to explore this park and immerse yourself in its history and beauty. It is a place full of charm and meaning! 🌳🌿

The Church of the Assumption in Almansa is an imposing monument that stands in front of the Plaza de Santa María. It is a must-see when touring the historic center of Almansa. Inside, Our Lady of Bethlehem, the Patroness of the city, presides over the High Altar. Construction began on April 30, 1524. Throughout the first half of the 16th century, it was developed from the foundation to the elevation of the nave walls, the side chapels, and buttresses were added. The sculptural group on the façade represents the Annunciation, with the Virgin kneeling before a lectern and the archangel Gabriel in front of her. If you're thinking of visiting the city, here's a little history to inspire you!

The Palace of the Counts of Cirat, also known as “the Big House”, is a Renaissance-style building with a civil character. It was built in the last quarter of the 16th century by the Almanseño noble Don Alfonso de Pina. This palace is located in the Plaza de Santa María in the town of Almansa. This palace is a historical and architectural testimony that deserves to be appreciated for its beauty and cultural significance. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Almansa, I recommend exploring this magnificent Renaissance building. 🏰🌟

The original construction could have been the work of the Almohads, who used to use the rammed earth technique for their defensive buildings. The remains of rammed earth walls in this castle, traditionally attributed to the Almohad period, were actually built during the first decades of Christian rule, at the end of the 13th century or the beginning of the 14th century. In the 14th century, Almansa and its fortress were incorporated into the Villena manor. Don Juan Manuel took advantage of the previous construction and ordered its walls to be rebuilt.

Perched on a rocky hill, this fortress overlooks Almansa. It was built in the 14th century and remains an important part of the local festivals here.