The starting point for our Rural Walk to the Hermitage of the Virgen del Ara begins next to the parish church of Ntra. Sra. de la Asunci\u00f3n in Fuente del Arco. The Hermitage of the Virgen del Ara... (plus +)

The starting point for our Rural Walk to the Hermitage of the Virgen del Ara begins next to the parish church of Ntra. Sra. de la Asunci\u00f3n in Fuente del Arco. The Hermitage of the Virgen del Ara is located at the foothills of the Sierra Morena, on the slope of the Sierra de la Jayona, in a place of great scenic and historical value. The construction of the sanctuary dates from the late 14th and early 15th centuries, featuring beautiful Mudejar arches, a bell gable, and adjoining constructions that served the temple. Its interior consists of a single nave covered with a barrel vault, highlighting the extraordinary mural paintings from various periods that decorate the entire nave, the presbytery, and the sacristy, which is why it is known as the \u201cSistine Chapel\u201d of Extremadura. These paintings make this building truly unique. The Hermitage is recognized thanks to these paintings, especially for having its nave, presbytery, and sacristy completely decorated with mural paintings from various periods, which is why it is known as the \u201cSistine Chapel\u201d of Extremadura. Throughout the journey, you can enjoy the typical landscapes of the area such as its endless valleys and mountains outlined on the horizon. Landscapes, dressed by meadows, olive groves, and Mediterranean scrub, from the northern foothills of the Sierra Morena contrast with the wide cereal plains of the neighboring Campi\u00f1a located further north. The fauna that can be spotted throughout the journey is very diverse: Jackdaw, Black Starling, Red-billed Chough, Eagle Owl, European Honey Buzzard, and the Black Stork among others. It should be noted that there are a few kilometers that will be done next to the road, so special care must be taken with children. TYPE OF ROUTE: Linear LENGTH: 11 km ESTIMATED TIME: 3 hours DIFFICULTY: Easy TYPE OF PATH: Urban layout, path, forest track, and road ELEVATION: 382 m.
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