Church of San Miguel, Gothic site 'lo Roser'
Discover the history of the church of San Miguel in Peñarroya de Tastavins, from its origins in the 14th century to its rediscovery as a cultural space. A testament to the Gothic past of the Matarraña region.
History and Gothic architecture
Origins in the 14th century
The church of San Miguel in Peñarroya de Tastavins has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. During this period, despite hardships such as plague outbreaks, the town had more than 800 inhabitants. Urban growth demanded the construction of a new church, dedicated to San Miguel and the Virgin of the Rosary, as the hermitage (chapel) of La Virgen de la Mola, built in the 13th century, had become insufficient.
This Gothic-style church shared architectural similarities with the upper hermitage (chapel) of the Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Fuente. It measured approximately 20 metres in length by 8 metres in width, had a single nave, a west-to-east orientation, and buttresses. Adjacent to it stood the portal de San Miguel in the town walls, which led down to the Tastavins River.
Did you know the curious story of its rediscovery?
In the 18th century, with the construction of a larger church, the church of San Miguel gradually fell out of use. The adjacent cemetery also became disused after a new one was established. Over time, the Gothic church was abandoned and its ruins lay hidden beneath new buildings. However, in recent years, the town hall of Peñarroya de Tastavins has driven a restoration project that has uncovered these valuable Gothic remains, reconstructing the ancient apse and transforming it into a vibrant cultural space. This effort has made it possible to preserve and breathe new life into this significant historic site, offering it to the community and to visitors.
Matarraña · Tourism
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