The Church of Salinas is the hallmark of the salt works of Cabo de Gata. Its design is highlighted by its monumental portico entrance and its unique and slender bell tower which has become the characteristic image of the natural landscape.
It was designed as a place of worship for the salt works employees and inaugurated in 1907. Funded by the Acosta family, (owners of various salt companies in the area) its main objective was to facilitate worship for the company’s employees. Although residents of the surrounding area also attended and celebrated other religious ceremonies there.
The bell tower warned of festivities and catastrophes, its steeple being the key control point of both the coast and surrounding areas devoted to the tillage of salt.
On December 25, 2004 the last mass was celebrated at the church. Sporadically there have been religious ceremonies and christenings (always after having obtained special permission from the Bishop). It has also been used for leisure and cultural activities.
However, from that date on its abandonment and deterioration has been on the rise, thereby increasing the risk of collapse. In 2011 the church was brutally attacked and painted with fake satanic symbols. The protests and signs of concern from the area’s neighbours requesting its urgent rehabilitation were soon felt.
At last, after the restoration and rehabilitation of the Church, the capital’s Town Hall will have an exhibition hall and a Tourist information Centre for the National Park on the building’s basement.
