Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Ontinyent

Nestled in the heart of the historic town of Ontinyent, in the picturesque comarca of Vall d'Albaida, stands the magnificent Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Ontinyent, also known locally as the Iglesia de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora. This architectural gem is not just a place of worship but a beacon of history, art, and culture, drawing visitors from far and wide to marvel at its grandeur and historical significance.

A Journey Through Time

The history of Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Ontinyent is a tapestry woven with threads of various eras and styles. The original church, built on the remains of an ancient mosque, was severely damaged by an earthquake in 1258. This catastrophe necessitated the construction of a new church, which began in the 14th century and extended into the 15th century, following the Valencian Gothic style.

The church's façade is a fascinating blend of styles, each door telling a different story. The main door, dating back to 1530, is adorned with Plateresque elements, while the Chapel door showcases Neoclassical influences. Another door, featuring a sculpture of the Good Shepherd, hails from the 15th century. Above one of these doors, at a considerable height, lies the tomb of Llop Llopis de Vaello, the eldest son of a knight involved in the medieval distribution of houses and lands in Ontinyent.

Architectural Marvels

The church underwent significant renovations in the mid-15th century, which included the construction of an apse and the opening of the transepts, giving the church its Latin cross layout. The final major renovation took place between 1518 and 1530 under the direction of Benet Oge, a master builder from Lyon, France. The side chapels, dating back to around 1540, were the work of Joan de Batea.

The presbytery, constructed around 1570 and later renovated in the late 17th century, is a testament to the evolving architectural styles. The sacristy, built between 1580 and 1610, houses a crypt where the urns of the priests are still visible. The Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, the patron saint of the town, was built between 1662 and 1692, almost simultaneously with the bell tower, which began construction in 1689.

An Artistic Sanctuary

Step inside Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Ontinyent, and you are greeted by a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. The image of the Virgin Mary, dating back to the 15th century, graces the keystone of the vault. The church also boasts a grand Florentine baptismal font from the 17th century, alongside the original Gothic baptismal font. The Flemish-style altarpiece of the Annunciation, from the 15th century, and the altarpiece by Josep Segrelles, commissioned to replace the Renaissance altarpiece destroyed during the Spanish Civil War, are among the church's most prized possessions.

Other notable artworks include pieces by Ribalta and anonymous 17th-century artists, as well as sculptures of the Holy Sepulchre (1943) and Our Lady of Solitude (1943-1944) by Mariano Benlliure. These works of art not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the church but also offer glimpses into the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region.

The Towering Bell Tower

The bell tower of Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Ontinyent is an architectural marvel in its own right. Construction of the tower began in 1689 and took 20 years to complete. The second tier and the bell tower's top section were added around 1745, although the tower suffered damage from an earthquake in 1748. In 1859, a lightning strike necessitated further repairs, resulting in the current tower, completed around 1880, with its distinctive wrought-iron finial.

Standing over 71 meters tall, the bell tower is the tallest in the Valencian region, its grandeur further accentuated by the demolition of the houses at its base, which revealed fortifications from various eras. The tower houses one of the oldest bells in the comarca, the Clock Bell, known as Rauxa i Foc, dating back to 1563.

Festivities and Traditions

Visiting Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Ontinyent during the first weekend of December offers a unique cultural experience. The town comes alive with the traditional festivities of the Bou en Corda, where three bulls are released to run through the streets, a thrilling event for both participants and spectators. The festivities also include the Embolada, where the bulls' horns are adorned with protective balls, and the release of a young cow for the children to engage with.

The celebrations culminate in the offering of flowers to the patron saint, the Immaculate Conception, on December 8th, known as the Festa Major. The day begins with the ringing of the bell named after the patron saint, followed by a series of religious ceremonies, a public rosary, and a grand procession featuring traditional dances and fireworks. The festivities continue with the Aguinaldo, a traditional fundraising visit by the church's representatives to local institutions.

Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Ontinyent is more than just a church; it is a living testament to the town's rich history, architectural evolution, and vibrant cultural traditions. A visit to this iconic landmark offers an immersive experience, transporting you through centuries of art, architecture, and tradition. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Ontinyent promises a memorable and enriching journey.