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St. John the Baptist Parish Church


Artana

It was built at the end of the 19th century on the site of the previous temple and occupies the space where the original medieval mosque most likely stood. The entire temple, culminating in a cross vault, is soberly decorated with gilded stuccoes repeating floral motifs. A Baroque chapel with very interesting exterior paintings and inscriptions stands out. Early 20th century cherub heads can also be seen. It holds attractive paintings from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, as well as a sculpture of a crucified Christ by Vicente Castell. On an interesting note, the Parish Museum houses a Muslim tombstone that was once inside the church.  It features an Arabic inscription that reads “This stone was raised by the courageous Ali Zobei. God is Allah and Muhammad his prophet.”

 


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