The Mysterious Abandonment of La Ermita de los Monjes
The reason behind the abandonment of La Ermita de los Monjes, a historical icon of Sierra Blanca, during the reign of Charles III in the 18th century remains a mystery. Today, only a few walls of this once significant structure are visible, hidden behind the overgrown vegetation.
Historical Significance of the Chapel
Constructed in the 16th century by a group of Franciscans known as the Minors, the chapel has had various names over the centuries. The chapel, now known as La Ermita de los Monjes, had a significant connection with the main parish church of Marbella, Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación. This route can still be traversed on foot, thanks to a series of paths leading to the chapel.
Exploring the Route to the Chapel
The Marbella Activa association promotes several excursions to the chapel from Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación church. The shortest route to the chapel is along the path of arroyo de los Monjes, parallel to the Guadalpín stream, starting from the Xarblanca residential area. Another route starts from Nagüeles.
The Minors and Their Solitary Life
The Minors were known for their commitment to evangelical poverty and their preference for secluded and solitary places. During the two centuries that the chapel was inhabited, wolves roamed these mountains. The springs near these sanctuaries were believed to have miraculous healing powers, attracting many penitent inhabitants of Marbella.
The Abandonment and Subsequent Use of the Chapel
The chapel, which once had its own orchard and vineyard, was abandoned by the monks in the 1760s. It was temporarily owned by a Marbella resident, Francisco Granados, but eventually fell into oblivion. By the mid-19th century, the chapel was described as “remains of an old monastery” in the Diccionario de Madoz.
Present-Day Significance of the Chapel
Today, the chapel is a key point in the Sierra Blanca network of footpaths. The Gran Senda de Málaga stage that links Marbella with Ojén passes through here. Some also follow the Via Sacra from Marbella and extend the itinerary to another emblematic landmark of this mountain range, the Cruz del Juanar. This route, however, is physically demanding due to an almost eight-kilometre climb.
