Gorgeous church in a great location. Easy walk from the cruise ships if you are on a cruise. The…read morearchitecture is amazing in the centuries old church. The statues on the side altars are interesting and have much detail. Make sure you visit each side altar as each one tells a story of a moment in time many centuries ago. Well worth taking the time to visit.

Basílica Santa María (built from 1672 till 1784) is the heart of Elche. The church is located in…read morethe center of the city and is one of most important places to visit (usually ranked 2nd after the Palmeral of Elche park). The building is a mix of different architectural styles from barocco to neo-classicism (read in Wikipedia after the visit). I had a feeling that parts of the building didn't quite match together when I was visiting but I couldn't understand what was going on :) The styles probably changed a lot over the years while they were building it! The church is home to yearly event called Misteri d'Elx (The Mystery Play of Elche), which takes place in August, 14-15. The Mystery Play of Elche is a religious drama (a performance) representing The Assumption of Mary into Heaven. Worth a visit if you are in Elche and around at these dates. Entrance is free. I added a separate listing for Misterio d'Elx on Yelp: http://www.yelp.com/biz/misterio-de-elche-elche The Basílica is also known for the views from its bell tower (haven't been there yet). It doesn't look very high from the ground but the views are very impressive (see pics here: https://goo.gl/maps/96j79YMRmAP2). The fee is just €2 for adults and €1 for children.

As an Anglo Canadian, i attended service on Sunday. Starts at 12:00 sharp…read more This is a family service with a guitar and singing to "blowing in the wind". I don't speak Spanish but this is a standard Catholic family service. No surprises. Friendly, clean, interesting. I got what I came for. Note: a cafe sets up tables in the square. Most days they are open but on Sunday, they will set up during mass. Exit church and order a pint! Get some ablongades meat balls! Beer and Eucharist. Perfect together.

The size of this museum-like cathedral is absolutely stunning. We really didn't know what to expect…read morewhen we entered. After visiting dozens of other 'mosque-cathedrals', gothic style cathedrals and churches built on the former mosque, we felt definitely overwhelmed by the size and information provided by audio tour. So, yes, we skipped a bit, but for the history and religion buffs-this one will be a treat! On top of it you get to lay your eyes on supposed' Holy Grail'.

You wouldn't have missed Catedral de Valencia if you are visiting Valencia. It is just massive and…read morewith really interesting architectural details. You probably would have seen it's bell tower illuminated by spotlight when you wandering around town at night. Interesting Fact from WIkipedia: One of the supposed Holy Chalices in the world is revered in one of this cathedral's chapels; this chalice has been defended as the true Holy Grail; indeed, most Christian historians all over the world declare that all their evidence points to this Valencian chalice as the most likely candidate for being the authentic cup used at the Last Supper. It was the official papal chalice for many popes, and has been used by many others, most recently by Pope Benedict XVI, on July 9, 2006.This chalice dates from the 1st century, and was given to the cathedral by king Alfonso V of Aragon in 1436. I was luckily enough to even have a glimpse of a late night mass going on. A must visit if you are in town!

Beyond beautiful. Art historians call this the Sistine Chapel of Valencia, and I can see why. The…read moremagnificent frescos, statues, and colors will blow your mind. It's a bit hidden, but once you, you'll be glad you went. A must see!

I had never seen such a beautiful church in Valencia (on even in Spain) like this one before. It's…read moreso beautiful and well done. The paintings inside are very in detail and well maintained. It's hard to take your eyes off of the ceiling which is covered with amazing paintings. It reminded me a bit of the Sistine Chapel in Rome. The pillars were all painted which are different from many churches. The door of the church is quite hidden. I wouldn't have known that this exists if my friend didn't tell me. El Carmen where is situated always surprises me!!! It's really a gem of Valencia!

I love the Gothic look of this amazing Church. It is just beautiful. I suggest you go while in…read moreValencia. All the painting are in the inside and there is not a lot, which is typical of this style. If you have the time you can climb to the top, but I do think there is a fee for that. It is really a pretty place. You will like it.