The Route of the Churches in Rincón de la Victoria is the perfect experience to enjoy culture, history and Andalusian food in a single route.
Discover the three most important temples, which have many centuries of devotion and local culture: from the historic church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Cala del Moral, through the simple yet charming church of Nuestra Señora de la Victoria in the heart of the municipality, to the pinturesque church of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria in Benagalbón. A unique experience which combines patrimony and unique landscapes, the perfect plan to connect Rincón de la Victoria’s soul through its many churches.
These are the three most important temples:
NUESTRA SEÑORA DEL ROSARIO CHURCH
Named after Our Lady of the Rosary, this church is located on Cala del Moral. Up until 1860, Our Lady of the Angels (Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles in Spanish) was the patron saint on this parish, but starting from that year after its inauguration, Our Lady of the Rosary (Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Spanish) was named as the patron saint of the temple.
NUESTRA SEÑORA DE LA VICTORIA CHURCH
Named after Our Lady of Victory, this church is located in Rincón de la Victoria. It is a simple church which dates from the 20th century which features popular Andalusian architecture and is home of an image of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Virgen del Carmen in Spanish) which dates from the 17th century. On its interior, a small altarpiece featuring the Image of the order of Our Lady of Victory.
Several processions throughout the year have their starting point here: the marine procession of the Virgin of Mount Carmel, the Virgin of Victoria (Rincón de la Victoria’s patron saint) procession which happens every September, as well as the brotherhood “Cofradía del Santo Cristo Crucificado y María Santísima de los Dolores” (Brotherhood of the Crucified Holy Christ and Most Holy Lady of Sorrows) during Holy Week.
NUESTRA SEÑORA DE LA CANDELARIA CHURCH
Named after Our Lady of Candelaria, it is located in the town of Benagalbón, in the interior urban centre of Rincón de la Victoria. This is a small construction using a rectangular floor plan covered with a flat root made of tiles and wooden beams. The primitive church has its origin on the 16th century and only its walls remain nowadays.
Its festivity is celebrated every February 2nd on Candlemas, as Our Lady of Carmelaria (Nuestra Señora de La Candelaria in Spanish), who is the patron saint of the town, is worshiped in this church which bears its name. The image of the Virgin dates from 1940. Inside the church, several mural paints stand out. These works of art represent the Annunciation, Purification and Assumption and were brought to life by painter Francisco Hernández Díaz.
Proposal for the Route of the Churches
We suggest an itinerary which combines spirituality, architecture and local cuisine while you traverse the Route of the Churches, starting from Cala del Moral, going into the heart of Rincón, and ending in the charming urban centre of Benagalbón.
First stop: Nuestra Señora del Rosario Church
Start your route in Cala del Moral visiting the Nuestra Señora del Rosario church, which was inaugurated back in 1860. This temple is home to the patron saint of the town, the Virgin of the Rosary, which celebrates its festivity on October 7th. The simple architecture and calm atmosphere of this church makes it the ideal starting point to connect with the historic essence of the area. Make the most of the nearby streets to walk and enjoy a typical Andalusian breakfast on any local café.
Second stop: Nuestra Señora de la Victoria Church
Make your way to the heart of Rincón de la Victoria, where you will find the Nuestra Señora de la Victoria Church, a true example of the popular Andalusian architecture from the 20th century. Its interior is home to an artistic jewel: the image of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which dates from the 17th century, as well as an altarpiece of Our Lady of Victory, patron saint of the town. If your visit happens to coincide with any festivity, such as the July or September processions, you will witness locals’ devotion in real time.
Before continuing, take a break walking in the Seaside Promenade nearby, where you will be able to enjoy the views of the Mediterranean and, if you wish, have a snack in one of its beach bars.
Third stop: Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria Church
Head towards the pinturesque interior urban centre of Benagalbón, where Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria Church awaits for you with its history and art. This temple, with a rectangular plan and built in the 16th century, is known due to its beautiful mural paintings which decorate its interior. These works of art were painted by the artist Francisco Hernández Díaz. The festivity of the Virgen of Candelaria, on February 2nd, makes this place as a cultural and religious epicentre.
After visiting this architectural gem, you will be able to enjoy a calm walk around the cobblestone roads of Benagalbón. In order to have the perfect closure, you should try the local food in one of the traditional restaurants around town. Dishes such as the Malagueño goat meat, migas or gazpachuelo will allow you to experience the essence of Málaga in all of its glory.
