Church of Our Lady del Mayor Dolor Prior

The church of Our Lady of Suffering is one of the most prominent and important buildings in Aracena. It is located in one of the most dramatic locations on top of the mountain which towers over the town and next to the ruins of the castle. What caught my attention is that it feels much more like a castle than a traditional church. The entrance is protected by a beautiful porch that also offers excellent shade in the summer months. From the entrance of the church you can also contemplate spectacular views of the Sierra de Aracena. Apparently building work on the Prior Church of Our Lady of Suffering was begun in the thirteenth century but not completed until the sixteenth century.