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Places of interest

Mirador de La Ermita de los Tres Juanes

4.4 · 480 reviews
A quiet and panoramic vantage point.
Mirador de La Ermita de los Tres Juanes, 18230 Atarfe, Granada, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The site hosts a collection of fossils from the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs, specific to the Granada Basin.

2

The chapel's name refers to three different individuals named Juan, reflecting the personal history of its benefactor.

3

The surrounding hill, Cerro del Castillejo, contains layers of historical occupation dating back to the Iberian era.

4

The viewpoint is designed to function as an interpretive center for the geology of the Vega de Granada.

Overview

The Mirador de la Ermita de los Tres Juanes is a distinctive viewpoint located at the summit of the Cerro del Castillejo in Atarfe, Granada. It sits at an elevation of approximately 860 meters, offering an expansive 360-degree panoramic view of the Vega de Granada and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The site serves as a museum housing the 'Colección Paleontológica José Martín Civantos', which displays fossils discovered in the surrounding area. The original chapel was constructed in the mid-20th century by Juan Fernández Matas and was later renovated to function as both a cultural space and a public lookout. Access to the summit involves a steady incline path from the base of the hill. The area is notable for its proximity to archaeological remains of an ancient Iberian and Roman settlement known as El Castillejo.

Photo spot

The terrace area immediately outside the chapel entrance, which offers an unobstructed view of the valley below.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes as the path to the summit can be uneven and steep.

Bring binoculars to identify specific peaks in the Sierra Nevada range from the viewing platform.

Carry water, as there are no amenities for purchasing drinks or food at the summit.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb the hill in the middle of summer afternoons due to extreme heat and lack of shade.

Good to know

The interior museum space has limited access; check local municipal calendars for current exhibition availability.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late afternoon or sunset for the best lighting across the Sierra Nevada and the Vega.
Address
Mirador de La Ermita de los Tres Juanes, 18230 Atarfe, Granada, Spain
37.236, -3.688
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsPliocene and Pleistocene fossils of the Granada Basin
Site typeViewpoint and archaeological museum

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon or sunset for the best lighting across the Sierra Nevada and the Vega..

The terrace area immediately outside the chapel entrance, which offers an unobstructed view of the valley below.

Close by you'll find Torreón de Albolote, Alhambra, Mirador de San Nicolás.