We are in the main religious temple of Mutxamel, built in 1513 under the patronage of “El Salvador”.
In the mid-16th century, the residents of Mutxamel bought a painting of the Virgin Mary from a painter from Biar, as they didn't have their own to carry in processions. She was invoked with the title "Mare de Déu de Loreto" (Mary of God of Loreto) and became the town's patron saint. Mutxamel's main religious and festive events are held in her honor: March 1st commemorates the Miracle of the Tear that occurred in 1545, and September 9th is the feast of the Virgin of Loreto, commemorating the miracle that occurred in 1597. From September 9th to 12th, the Moors and Christians festivals are celebrated, festivals declared of Regional Tourist Interest. Until 1910, the festivals were held on March 1st, which is also the town's main festival; starting that year, they are celebrated on September 9th.
The church consists of a nave with a Latin cross plan and three chapels. The original chapel of the "Mare de Déu de Loreto" is located below the bell tower and is an important example of the Renaissance in Alicante.
We highlight the attached Defense Tower, which was intended to provide shelter for the population from land raids by pirates and Berbers, and which currently serves as a bell tower. Dating from the 16th century, it is 23.5 meters high and divided into six sections separated by slight cornices. From the top, you can enjoy wonderful views of the orchard and the sea. This defense tower, called the MUTXAMEL TOWER, can be visited and is open to the public every day during mass.
In addition to this defensive tower, Mutxamel is home to other towers, such as the Torre Paulinas and the Torre Ferraz. All dating from the same century, they have been declared Sites of Cultural Interest, within the monument category.
