Palacio del Temple

The Palacio del Temple is more famous for its previous occupants than for its architecture, though this too is outstanding. Today it is the University Parish but it was once the monastery for the Montesa Order of monks. These are the legendary warrior-monks or "Knight Templars", charged with protecting the Holy Grail. The building itself was built by the architect from Madrid, Miguel Fernandez. There are two separate parts to the complex: the monastery and the church. Two large towers with white and blue tiles crown the building (typical of the Mediterranean). The facade is pure Neoclassical in style, while inside is a beautiful cloister. The church is based on a typically Jesuit layout and has a wonderfully large dome. The Palacio was declared a Historic and Artistic National Monument in 1979. You can visit the complex one hour prior to commencement of mass. Mass: 8p M-Sa; noon & 8p Su

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• Attraction Type: Religious Buildings

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