In Murla, medieval local history and experiences of the landscape are close together: the history of the castle and churches can be seen in several buildings, while paths to viewpoints and along the riverbed offer different perspectives on the surroundings. This makes it easy to tailor a stay to your interests—with historic sites at the center or with routes and views as the main focus.
Castles and a fortified church
Murla developed from a medieval alquería around the Castle of Pop, which is now identified with the town’s parish church. The fortified church of Sant Miquel Arcàngel is also rooted in an older history: it is located in a former castle dating from the Islamic period. Its defensive function was reinforced in the 16th century in response to attacks by the pirates led by Barbarossa. On August 14, 2001, the church was granted Bien de Interés Cultural status. The various historical associations make the church a central point of interest if you want to get to know Murla through its architectural history.
Another historic site is El Castellet, also known as Castell de Murla. The structure stands on Puig d’Orba; only a few ruined walls remain, overlooking La Rectoría, a subcomarca within the wider Marquesado de Denia. From Vellich and Comeig, El Castellet is easily reached via an old bridle path. The site thus combines a fragmentary archaeological trace with a distinct location in the landscape.
Places with changing uses
In the town center is the Ermita de la Divina Aurora, also known as the Ermita de la Sang. Its plot once belonged to a hospital, specifically its women’s ward, and was later also used as a prison. This sequence gives the site a different historical perspective from the fortified church: here, the focus is on the plot’s former uses.
The Font i llavador Nou de Murla also tells of everyday life in the past. Located beside the spring, it once served as a meeting place and leisure spot for women; the site has since been altered. El Rajolat carries on a different social history: the stone bench made of slabs is connected with the historic emigration from Murla and continues to serve as a shady meeting place. Together, these places show how public spaces and buildings were used in different periods.
Views and routes in the surrounding area
From the summit of Penyó Roig, the view extends to the Xaló River, Seguili, Montgó, Segària, Carrascar and as far as the sea. Near the Ermita de Sant Sebastià, pine trees and scrubland shape a typically Mediterranean setting. There is also a viewpoint near the hermitage, equipped with benches and offering expansive views. If you want to distinguish between different landscape experiences, you can choose between a summit panorama and a viewpoint near the hermitage.
The PR-CV 426 Penyó Roig starts in Murla and passes via the Calvario de Murla to the Ermita de Sant Sebastià. Two access options to the hermitage are also described: on foot along a path or by vehicle along a track. The track starts from the road connecting Murla with Fleix and Campell in La Vall de Laguar. As trail conditions may change, it is advisable to check them before setting out.
The Camins de pedra i aigua route offers a different perspective on the landscape: after Murla, it continues toward Benigembla, follows the riverbed and offers the chance to experience nature and wildlife along this section. The LIC Conca del riu Gorgos is associated with Murla as a place of interest. These landscape experiences are distinct: viewpoints offer wide-ranging vistas, while the route follows the riverbed.
Discover more destinations: Sella, Benissili, Busot, Benifato, Agost, Gata De Gorgos, Petrer, Bigastro.
For the main travel overview: Alicante.
