Ermita de San Joan de Mosquera

The Hermitage of Sant Joan de Mosquera, located in the municipality of Alcalalí, is a historical testament that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Its origin is closely linked to the ancient Andalusian farmstead of Mosquera, a rural community that existed in this area during the Islamic period.

History of the Mosquera Farmstead

During the Islamic domination, the Mosquera farmstead was a small rural community composed of about forty houses. These farmsteads were settlements primarily dedicated to agriculture and livestock, taking advantage of the fertile soil and the availability of groundwater for irrigation. However, in 1609, with the expulsion of the Moriscos, the Mosquera farmstead was definitively depopulated. Despite this, architectural elements from that time are still preserved, such as fragments of terraces and various hydraulic infrastructures, including cisterns and the well of the noria.

Construction of the Hermitage

In 1577, Juan de Ribera erected the hermitage of Sant Joan de Mosquera, choosing Saint John the Baptist as its patron, a saint easily accepted by those who renounced Islamic law and embraced Christianity. The image of "Sant Joanet," as it is popularly known in Alcalalí, was carved in Valencia by the sculptor Luis Gilabert Ponce in the late 19th century.

Tradition of the Porrat de San Juan

The hermitage gained great popularity, especially during the feast of Saint John on June 24. Since the 17th century, a "porrat" or fair was organized in honor of the saint, attracting neighbors from all the towns in the Marina region. This tradition, initiated during the Moorish period, continued after their expulsion and was maintained until the early 20th century. Today, on the night of Saint John (June 23), the image of "Sant Joanet de Mosquera" is taken in procession to the town, marking the beginning of the local festivities.

Architecture of the Hermitage

The hermitage features simple and functional architecture. It includes a porch with three frontal accesses under semi-circular arches and a window with a lowered arch on the left side. The building comprises the temple and the hermit's house, with walls of rubble masonry plastered with white lime and buttresses that reinforce its structure.

Cultural and Heritage Importance

The Hermitage of Sant Joan de Mosquera is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the identity and historical memory of Alcalalí. Its preservation and the festivities associated with it reflect the continuity of centuries-old traditions that strengthen the social and cultural fabric of the community.

Over time, the hermitage suffered significant deterioration. Therefore, in 2015, it underwent a restoration that recovered its original structure and renewed architectural elements such as its characteristic porch with semi-circular arches. These efforts have restored the hermitage's importance as a cultural heritage site of Alcalalí.

Hermitage of Sant Joan de Mosquera - Alcalalí Tourism

Hermitage of Sant Joan de Mosquera - MACMA

Hermitage of Saint John the Baptist of Mosquera - Manuserran