Basilica of Vera Cruz

The Basilica of Vera Cruz consists of two clearly differentiated parts: the walls and the sanctuary. Despite its Islamic origins, the monument has undergone many changes. Nowadays, 14 different shaped-and-sized fortified towers are spread along the wall. The fortress belonged first to the Order of the Temple, and later to the Order of Santiago, a Spanish Christian military order. Moreover, the castle was used for military purposes during the Spanish Succession War and the Peninsular War.

The Holy True Cross Sanctuary was built in the heart of the old fortress in the 17th century. Then, in the 18th century, its magnificent baroque façade was annexed to the sanctuary. The church has a Latin-Cross plan, a continuous gallery over the lateral naves, and also a dome over the transept. Recently, the Holy True Cross Museum has been reopened in the sanctuary rooms.

Address
Caravaca de la Cruz, Spain

Established
1617