Parish Church

It is one of the most emblematic buildings in Bocairent. Built on top of the old castle and consecrated in 1516, it was originally constructed in the gothic style and later adapted to the baroque tastes of the time. Inside the church are elements displaying the main characteristics of Valencian art that stretch from the gothic to the 19thcentury. In 1748 the church suffered important damage due to a powerful earthquake centred in nearby Montesa that led to the partial collapse of the belltower, and which had to be rebuilt in 1766.

The church is divided into a central and two lateral naves, separated with columns on top of which stand sculptures of the apostles and the saints. In the central nave there are frescoes painted by Vicent Amat (from 19th century) with allegorical motifs representing the Dormition and Coronation of the Virgin Mary.

HIGH ALTAR

Built in the second half of the 19^th century it is neoclassical in style, and is presided over by Our Lady of the Assumption, who is the namesake of the church. Resting at her feet stands a painting of the “Saviour” by Josep Segrelles from nearby Albaida. To the right, you will find part of the altarpiece painted for the church in the 16^th century by Juan de Juanes, and to the left sits another altarpiece started by Juan de Juanes although completed by his pupils. Juan de Juanes died in Bocairent whilst working on the main altarpiece for the high altar.

THE BAPTISMAL FONT

This was originally an ancient public fountain dating back to the 15^th century. It is made in stone and is supported by a gothic base. It was moved to the church in the 17^th century, and is attributed to the master stone masons Pere Compte and Pere Balaguer, who were also responsible for the Lonja Silk Exchange and the Miguelete tower in Valencia.

CHAPEL OF OUR LADY OF THE ROSER
(The little Sistine Chapel of Mariola)

A example of the rich decoration found inside the chapel can be seen on the entry façade, where there are motifs related to the Eucharist. The motto is taken from the book of Genesis, and reads “Tibi post haec, fili mi, ultra quid faciam” (meaning: “After this, what more can I do for you, my son?). When entering the chapel, which is also known as the little Sistine Chapel of Mariola, you will be struck by the sumptuous baroque decoration. Thanks to the crucial support of the Roser and Minerva brotherhoods construction was able to begin in 1665. The frescoes filling the chapel were painted in 1732 by José Parreu and his disciples.

CHAPEL OF SAINT BLAISE

Since 1632 Saint Blaise has been the patron saint of Bocairent. In the chapel dedicated to him, constructed and decorated in 1722 by the Vergara brothers, the churrigueresque style predominates. It is presided over by Saint Blaise and has four medallions representing scenes from the saint’s life and martyrdom.