In the heart of Roquetas de Mar, nestled along the bustling Avda. de Juan Bonachera, lies a gem of historical and religious significance: the Ermita de la Santa Cruz. This quaint chapel, with its unassuming exterior, holds a rich tapestry of stories and traditions that have woven themselves into the fabric of the local community over the centuries.
The origins of the Ermita de la Santa Cruz date back to a significant event in 1868 when three members of the Redemptorist Order—Víctor, Pedro, and Luis—visited the town. During their mission, they reignited the faith of the local inhabitants over the course of four days. On the final day, they carried a black-painted wooden cross from the church of Ntra. Sra. del Rosario to a place known as El Ventorrillo. Here, the cross was erected on a pedestal, and the missionary Pedro delivered a moving sermon on the death and passion of Jesus. This act left a lasting impression on the townspeople, setting the stage for the future construction of the chapel.
Fast forward to January 23, 1900, the municipal corporation decided to construct a chapel at the very spot where the Redemptorist missionaries had placed the cross 32 years earlier. The chapel was named Ermita de la Santa Cruz in honor of this event. The construction was spearheaded by Ramón Alcaraz Yborra, a fisherman who, after surviving a severe storm at sea, vowed to build the chapel as a token of gratitude to the Virgin Mary.
The chapel has not been without its trials. During the Spanish Civil War in 1937, the interior of the Ermita de la Santa Cruz suffered significant damage, and several religious images were lost. Despite these setbacks, the chapel has remained a focal point for the community's religious activities.
Today, the Ermita de la Santa Cruz continues to play a vital role in the religious life of Roquetas de Mar, albeit with reduced activity. Notably, on the Friday before the Friday of Sorrows, a Via Crucis for children is held, starting from the chapel and ending at the church of Santa Ana. On Palm Sunday, a procession featuring children dressed as Hebrews also begins at the chapel and makes its way to Santa Ana. Additionally, on Holy Wednesday, the procession of Ntro. Padre Jesús Nazareno, organized by the Brotherhood of Ntra. Sra. de los Dolores, passes by the chapel. During this event, a reverence is performed where the front carriers kneel, and the back carriers lift the throne, causing it to incline in a solemn bow.
The Ermita de la Santa Cruz is a modest yet charming example of popular architecture. The chapel's rectangular layout, also known as a salon plan, is divided into two main sections. The first section, immediately after the entrance, features two benches on either side and a simple wooden-beamed ceiling. The second section is the altar area, which houses various religious images, including the Santa Cruz that gives the chapel its name.
Among the chapel's collection of religious artifacts, the image of the Virgin of Fatima stands out. Acquired through popular subscription between 1953 and 1955, this image initially resided in the church of Ntra. Sra. del Rosario. During a Resurrection Sunday procession in the 1950s, the hands of the Virgin were damaged, leading to the suspension of the procession. Subsequently, the image was moved to the Ermita de la Santa Cruz, where the hands were restored. However, the procession was never resumed.
The chapel is also linked to a curious local legend known as El engañamuerte. In 1886 or 1887, a man named Luis Francisco Jiménez Montoya reportedly awoke inside a coffin at the site known as El Ventorrillo, where the chapel now stands. This tale adds an intriguing layer of folklore to the chapel's already rich history.
In conclusion, the Ermita de la Santa Cruz is more than just a religious building; it is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the people of Roquetas de Mar. Its walls have witnessed moments of profound devotion, community spirit, and even the ravages of war. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a devout pilgrim, or simply a curious visitor, a visit to this humble chapel offers a unique glimpse into the soul of this vibrant coastal town.
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