Iglesia del Rosario, Roquetas de Mar

In the heart of the charming coastal town of Roquetas de Mar, in the province of Almería, Spain, stands the Iglesia del Rosario, also known in its local language as Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario. This picturesque church is not just a place of worship but a beacon of the town's rich history and cultural heritage.

The History of Iglesia del Rosario

The origins of Iglesia del Rosario are deeply intertwined with the historical tapestry of Roquetas de Mar. Before the church was constructed, the town's ecclesiastical needs were served by the parish of Iglesia de la Encarnación in Felix and later by the parish of San Benito in Vícar. This relationship dates back to the times of the Kingdom of Granada, when the territory was divided into administrative regions known as tahas. Roquetas de Mar was part of the Taha of Almexixar, with its capital in Felix.

As the population of Roquetas de Mar grew, the need for a dedicated place of worship became evident. Although the Castle of Santa Ana had its own chapel, it was insufficient to meet the needs of the expanding community of farmers, fishermen, and soldiers. The construction of Iglesia del Rosario began between 1747 and 1750, under the architectural guidance of Ventura Rodríguez, a renowned architect from Madrid. The church was completed in 1757, funded primarily by the local community, with some assistance from the Diocese of Almería.

The church's construction was a significant milestone for the town, symbolizing a step toward administrative independence and fostering a sense of unity among the residents. The church was consecrated for the celebration of sacraments in the early 1770s, under the episcopacy of Claudio Sanz y Torres, during the reign of King Carlos III of Spain.

The Patroness of Roquetas de Mar

On April 17, 1797, Nuestra Señora del Rosario was chosen as the patroness of Roquetas de Mar. This decision was made during a meeting of the town council, in response to a devastating epidemic that had struck the town. In a draw that included all the religious images in the church, the image of the Virgin of the Rosary was selected, and she has been venerated as the town's patroness ever since. Her feast day is celebrated on October 7th, with a procession and various festivities that have been held since the 19th century. The current image of the Virgin, which replaced the one destroyed during the Spanish Civil War, was canonically crowned in the year 2000.

Architectural Features and Interior

The Iglesia del Rosario is a testament to the architectural style of the 18th century, with its simple yet elegant design. The church's façade is characterized by its clean lines and minimalistic approach, with a prominent cross adorning the roof. The bell tower, with its clock, stands tall beside the church, serving as a landmark for the town.

Inside, the church houses a collection of 14 religious images, a number that has fluctuated over the years. Many of the original images were lost or damaged during the Spanish Civil War. Among the notable images is the Santísimo Cristo del Perdón, donated by Manuel Marín Amat in 1944, and the Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, which arrived in Roquetas de Mar in 1940 from the workshops of Olot, donated by Ángel Gonzálvez García and his family.

Other significant images include San José, the Inmaculada Concepción, San Marcos, San Antonio, and the Virgen de Fátima. Each of these images holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, representing various aspects of their faith and devotion.

The Church During the Spanish Civil War

The Spanish Civil War had a profound impact on the Iglesia del Rosario. During the Second Republic, the church faced hostility from leftist parties advocating for the separation of church and state. Despite these challenges, the church continued to hold religious processions and celebrations, albeit without the participation of the municipal authorities.

When the civil war broke out, Roquetas de Mar was in the Republican zone, leading to the expulsion of the parish priest and the subsequent looting and destruction of the church. Many of the church's images, altars, and furnishings were destroyed, including the original image of the Virgin of the Rosary. The church was later restored, with the current entrance door being paid for by Pepa Padilla in 1922 and subsequently repaired after the war.

Modern-Day Iglesia del Rosario

Today, the Iglesia del Rosario stands as a symbol of resilience and faith for the people of Roquetas de Mar. It continues to serve as a place of worship and a focal point for community gatherings and celebrations. The church is located in the Plaza de la Constitución, in the center of Roquetas de Mar, adjacent to the town hall.

Visitors to the Iglesia del Rosario can admire its architectural beauty, explore its rich history, and experience the deep sense of community and devotion that it embodies. Whether attending a mass, participating in a religious procession, or simply enjoying the serene ambiance, a visit to the Iglesia del Rosario offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of Roquetas de Mar.