Church of Santa María de Almocóvar

This beautiful church in Alcántara was built on a former mosque which was adapted for Christian worship after the Reconquest, until eventually the church of Santa María de Almocóvar was constructed. There are several theories regarding the origin of its name, as some believe that it comes from "Al-Mocovara", which means the highest place, whilst others argue that it is derived from "Al-Macavir", i.e. the cemetery.

Originally the church was Romanesque, but only the three doorways remain in this style. The main doorway, however, is one of the most beautiful examples of Romanesque style to be found in Extremadura. Since being built, the church has been subjected to several alterations, the last of them in the 17th century.

If you decide to go and visit it, make a note of some of the indispensable elements that cannot be missed, as they are veritable artworks worthy of enjoyment. First of all, there is the supine Christ attributed to Martínez Montañés. Then there are the tombs of the commander Antonio Bravo de Jerez, the work of Lucas Mitata, and Maestre Yáñez de la Barbuda; five boards by Luis de Morales, and naturally, the baptismal font where Saint Peter of Alcántara was christened.