The site of Las Virtudes is located six kilometers southeast of the
town of Santa Cruz de Mudela (Ciudad Real, Spain). The sanctuary is of
medieval origin, however, most of the buildings that make up
the sanctuary date from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. Among
them, the existence of a hermitage stands out, decorated with
beautiful wall paintings in the Baroque style. It is one of the most
important pictorial groups in the Castilla-La Mancha region.
Attached to the hermitage is an imposing square bullring, possibly the
oldest in the world, likely dating between 1641 and 1722. Unfortunately, the
bullring was partially destroyed during the Peninsular War, but later
rebuilt in the 19th century.
Las Virtudes sanctuary is owned by the Santa Cruz de Mudela City
Council, which is in charge of its maintenance and management. After
the latest restoration work, the sanctuary has recovered all its
splendor. Currently it remains open most of the week, being free
entry.
