There are many touching stories of charity and solidarity to be told, but surely few can match the construction of a sanctuary using donations made by the faithful, and that is just how the history of the building devoted to Santa Eulalia de Mérida in Totana began. In other parts of the Region of Murcia sanctuaries are usually located close to the town centre, but that is not the case here. If you like walking, then you really have to make a trip to the "home" of Santa Eulalia of Mérida, and the journey is equally attractive and gratifying on public transport.
7 kilometres from the old centre of Totana, this Mudéjar-style church welcomes the people of Totana every year as they make their own pilgrimage up the mountain to pay homage to their patron. Totana is a city of traditions, and the people here are among the most devout in the Region: every January and December they join in the "romerías" to the sanctuary, and enjoy days of communal fellowship together.
Inside, the church is decorated with paintings which tell the stories of the Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ and the Franciscans. There are a total of 48 frescoes which, along with the coats of arms of nearby towns, embody the importance of the Sanctuary for the people of Totana. Entry, and with it the chance to get a taste of the religious fervour of Totana, is free of charge, and most visitors leave keen to repeat the experience.
