Altura

Altura sits on the final foothills of the Iberian System on the Valencian pre-coastal range. The village is immersed in the heart of Sierra Calderona, a stunning mountainscape extending for over 130km2 of diverse and fascinating terrain. The village sits 350m above sea level while the land rises up to an impressive 1,015m at Montemayor summit. In the area spanning from El Palancia valley to the edges of Sierra Calderona you will find countless springs, beautiful nature, architectural sights and traditional country buildings.

What to do in Altura

Altura combines incredible nature with fascinating buildings and sights, making it a wonderful place to spend some time. Keep reading to discover everything you should see during your visit.

Just outside the town of Altura, there are a number of historic bridges and aqueducts. The best way to visit these constructions is on foot, following one of the many hiking routes located around the village. These trails will lead you deep into the landscape, enveloping you in the most incredible nature. One of the most popular routes that passes through Altura is the Ojos Negros Greenway. 

Inside the town itself, you will come across a number of different historic buildings such as El Batán, a monastic structure that dates back to Medieval times. Here the Carthusian monks used to make material and, later, paper. The building is currently in ruins, but what is left enables you to imagine what it was like in the Middle Ages. 

Altura is home to a number of religious buildings that are well worth a visit. Primitiva church, for example, is an exponent of Valencian Gothic that sits in the historic centre of the town. During its restoration, the church spaces were done up to hold art exhibitions, creating a unique and historic space to enjoy works of art. 

San Miguel Arcángel church has great historic and artistic significance. This Neoclassical building houses a 15th century reredos from Cartuja Vall de Crist, a Carthusian monastery. It also has an image of Virgen de Gracia dating to the 14th century.  

Cartuja Vall de Crist is itself a wonderful place to visit. Breathing art, history and heritage, the building was the former monastery of the Order of the Carthusians (Saint Bruno). Over time, the monastery became an important centre of economic, cultural, religious and political power. It is currently a Site of Historic Interest and is full of the most fascinating architectural elements. 

And last but by no means least, Santuario de la Cueva Santa is a place of worship that has been visited by pilgrims for hundreds of years. Legend has it that the image of the Virgin was seen here, which has been linked to a large number of miracles. Pilgrimages are still carried out from the villages in Alto Palacia to this cave, which is a wonderful sight to visit for its religious importance and the beautiful scenery it is immersed in. 

In addition to the sights listed in this post, there are plenty of other things to do and see during your time in Altura. So make your way to the inland of the province of Castellón and enjoy this beautiful town and landscape.