SANCTUARY NUESTRA SEÑORA DE VIRTUDES: In the construction of this complex, declared a Historic Artistic Monument in 1976, various constructive periods can be seen. The original hermitage dates back to the second half of the 15th century, of which there are remains in the crypt, under the current dressing room. Apparently, the inhabitants of Villena, fleeing from the plague, settled in this place, deciding to seek the protection of a patron, who was the Virgin of Virtues. The cloister is very simple, the lowered semicircular arches rest on brick pillars, while the galleries are covered. The stair case is to the west, without keeping the axis of symmetry with the cover. It has had various interventions, but its general aspect links it to the last Gothic.
Location: Las Virtudes Ctra AP-4243 (7 km from Villena).
Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. and from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 5 to 7 p.m.
PLAZA MAYOR: Located next to Calle Mayor, it is within the tradition of Spanish main squares. The file of declaration of Historic Artistic Complex was initiated in 1977. Originally it was an open space that served as a meeting place for the Municipal Council, until in 1560 it decided to build in the north corner of the Plaza de «Almudí», or place intended for the collection of the wheat from the Posito, simultaneously moving the municipal sessions to the so-called “Casas del Tesoro” in the Plaza de Santiago. The importance of the Plaza Mayor in the urban life of Villena is indisputable, as well as its specialization as a public center, representing a more than worthy setting for parties and collective participation ceremonies.
PLAZA DE TOROS: The bullring of Villena is one of the few existing bullrings in the province of Alicante. It was inaugurated in 1924, with capacity for 10,000 people. Abandoned and in a dilapidated state for years, in 2007 an agreement was signed for its rehabilitation and conversion into a multipurpose building. The restoration plan included the covering with a dome and the construction of a glass pyramid adjacent to the plaza. On March 26, 2011 it was reopened as a bullfighting and multipurpose arena.
Location: Avenue Constitución, s/n.
Observations: Open in specific activities (exhibitions, concerts, bulls, etc.).
