Churches in Antequera

All of the churches and convents in Antequera have their own character and distinctive features.

Church of El Carmen

The Church of El Carmen was built in the late 16th century, and is one of the most important monuments in Antequera. It is distinct for its huge intricately carved wooden altarpiece, which is an outstanding example of Antequeran baroque art.

There are several independent side chapels, all intricately decorated with sculptures and paintings. One, in particular, has a donated 15th century polychrome image of the Virgin of Succour.

Convent of La Trinidad

The Convent of La Trinidad, also built in the 17th century in Herreran style, features a recently restored high altarpiece and in the aisles an 18th century image of La Dolorosa.

Church of San Juan

The plain exterior of the 16th century Church of San Juan, beneath the Alcazaba in the barrio of its name, belies an interior which offers a fine combination of Renaissance and Mudejar art, plus several interesting paintings and sculptures.

Convent of Belén

The 17th century Convent of Belen in the street of the same name, is known for the stunning plasterwork decoration in the domed ceiling.

Church of los Remedios

The Church of los Remedios – 17th century – joins the Town Hall on the Calle Don Infante, and contains a magnificently intricate grand altarpiece. It also has a beautiful belfry, and a ground plan in the form of a Latin cross. Today flamenco renditions can be heard here on occasions, and it is a common venue for communions and weddings.

Church of San Sebastian

The Alcazaba looks down on Calle Don Infante, which today features many banks, shops, and cafés. At the south end of Infante lies the Plaza San Sebastián, with its central fountain and the famous Collegiate Church of San Sebastián.

The Collegiate institution was transferred here from the Collegiate in plaza Santa María, in the late 17th century.

Building on the church began in the mid 16th century, and it was not completed until the 18th century, resulting in a combination of artistic styles.

The front of the church was built by architect Diego de Vergara in Renaissance style. The tower was later constructed by architect Andrés Burgueño, following the Baroque-Mudejar style with skillful interlacing of brickwork, overlaid with pilasters and cornices. The spire is glazed ceramic, making for a unique and splendid tower crowned by a distinctive weathercock. Most of the interior was rebuilt in the 18th century in a mostly neo-classical style, notably in the dome and high chapel.

Particular features of the interior are the high enclosed wood choir stalls, the two baroque organs, and fine sculptures and paintings.

Chapel-Tribune of the Virgen del Socorro

The cute looking Chapel-Tribune of the Virgen del Socorro, with its distinctive intricate brick laid facade and open fresco on its balcony, has a key role in Antequera’s Holy Week celebrations. It is situated in the Plaza del Portichuelo, close to the Alcazaba, and dates from the 18th century – an important monument for Antequera.