The church of La Purísima Concepción in El Esparragal, Puerto Lumbreras

A small and picturesque church in the village of El Esparragal

The small church of the village of El Esparragal, a few kilometres from the town of Puerto Lumbreras, is dedicated to the Purísima Concepción (the Immaculate Conception), and dates from the early 19th century.

The church was founded on 11^th August 1826, but like others in the area has undergone numerous reforms before reaching its current design. Originally it occupied a converted barn donated by one of the local residents, María de la Concepción Sánchez López, hence the decision to devote the church to the worship of Our Lady of the Conception.

The Ermita de la Purísima Concepción occupies a building of simple design, measuring 24 metres in length, and the most eye-catching feature is the tiling and window outlines which adorn the façade. The bell is suspended in a small turret atop this façade.

Every 8th December the church is the hub of the annual local fiestas in honour of the Purísima Concepción, and the celebrations include a floral offering, a procession and music from traditional folklore groups.

Mass times are as follows:

October to March: Saturdays at 20.00, Sundays at 10.00.

April, May, June and September: Saturdays at 21.00, Sundays at 10.00.

July and August: Saturdays at 21.00.

For more local news, events and other information go to the Puerto Lumbreras section of Murcia Today.