The best MTB trails around Gata De Gorgos

The building complex consists of a former Franciscan monastery and the associated church, which is dedicated to the Holy Family. The complex was built towards the end of the 19th century. The church is built in the neo-Gothic style and is characterized by pointed arches, high windows and a striking bell tower. Surrounded by the tranquil landscape of the Marina Alta, the place is today both a religious center and an interesting historical building in the region.

Description The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla is a small church located in the heart of the town. Behind its walls lies a long history. The building's history stretches from the Middle Ages to the present day, resulting in various uses and changes to its appearance. The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla was restored in 1979. It is a semi-detached building with a vaulted ceiling and two transverse arches, above which, from the altar, stands the image of Ecce Homo. To one side is the old Chapel of San Francisco de Borja, which has housed the image of the town's patron saint, the Divine Aurora, since 1856. History The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla has a centuries-old history. Although the exact date of its construction is unknown, all indications point to around 1591. The building was formerly the city's old women's hospital, which, like these rooms in the Middle Ages, was converted into a hermitage invoking the Blood of Christ. However, it had been used as a prison long before that. In 1600, the prison was located within the hospital, but the diocese at the time decided to separate them. Documents indicate that the old prison was located where the image of the divine Aurora is currently situated.

The Església Parroquial de l’Assumpció de Nostra Senyora in Pego is considered the city's most important Catholic church. Its construction began in 1599 on the ruins of an earlier church, which itself had been built on the site of a former mosque. Completion continued into the late 17th century, while the distinctive bell tower was added between 1700 and 1725. Stylistically, the church combines elements of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, representing the so-called "Gótico-Renaissance" style. Inside, one finds significant works of art, such as the 14th-century Double Veronica, the 15th-century altarpiece of the "Mare de Déu de l’Esperança," and a processional cross from the same period. After the Spanish Civil War, frescoes and paintings were restored, including works by the Valencian artist Rafael Cardells. Historically, the church served as the center of the archpresbytery of the region and is today an outstanding testament to the religious and artistic history of Pegos.

The Portal de Sala is located in the town of Pego and is the only fully preserved of the three original entrances to the town's medieval fortifications. Situated on Calle Sant Domènec, the gate once served to provide daytime access to the fields and gardens outside the town and to protect the inhabitants from attack at night. Attached to the portal is a square tower, one of the few remaining towers of the original sixteen town fortifications. The Portal de Sala is now an important historical monument and a testament to Pego's medieval urban architecture.

This gnarled fellow is quite impressive. It is said to be between 800 and 1,000 years old and was planted at a time when the Moors dominated the area. It bears three types of olives and is probably still being pruned and harvested.

Komoot Tip: Velosol Cycling Bar in Jalón – a favorite stop for Evenepoel and Van der Poel Tucked away in the cycling paradise of Jalón, beneath the Bernia and close to the legendary climb of Coll de Rates, Velosol Cycling Bar is a must-stop for any rider on the Costa Blanca. Run by a friendly Belgian couple, this cozy spot is a true hub for cyclists — including pros like Remco Evenepoel and Mathieu van der Poel, who often swing by for a well-earned coffee ☕ or one of their famous pancakes 🥞.

Tip for fellow cyclists: Velosol isn’t just a great cycling café – they also have a well-equipped bike shop and workshop with top-notch service and real expertise. Our road bikes are always happy to stay there for a little pampering, whether it’s getting fresh tires or sparkling clean drivetrains!

short videos about hiking and cycling in area around Coll de Rates could be found on my YouTUBE Channel under following links: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiUgVTg041U (cycling) -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfHMhDC-C0U (hiking)