The Basilica of the Puríssima Xiqueta and San Pedro Apóstol, inaugurated in 1929, is the most representative symbol of Benissa. This church, in neo-Gothic style, replaced the old fortress church of San Pedro Apóstol. Built thanks to donations and the efforts of the local community, it has a structure of three naves and stands out for its imposing central lantern and its altar, where a reliquary is kept with a painted tablet of the Puríssima Xiqueta, attributed to the school of Juan de Juanes.

Currently, with the commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the arrival in the municipality of the image of the Puríssima Xiqueta, the original project of the church is being finalized. In the two bell towers, the 17-metre pinnacles are being raised, an element that was missing to complete the original design of the architect Vicente Pascual, who, inspired by French architectural influences, thought of this finish to give a more aerial and imposing image to the temple. The wooden spires, which have already arrived in Benissa, will culminate the neo-Gothic church, known as “the cathedral of the Marina”. This project, which was delayed for decades, will now give a new stamp to the basilica, which will reach 32 meters in height with its towers topped by the pinnacles, which will be crowned with a shaft in the shape of an eight-pointed star, symbol of the Mare de Déu.

The temple, in addition to being a place of worship, is also a center of Marian devotion. The Puríssima Xiqueta, patron saint of Benissa, is venerated especially in the patron saint festivities that are celebrated on the fourth Sunday of April, where “La Baixada de la Puríssima” stands out, an act in which the reliquary of the Virgin is lowered with a hydraulic system to be placed on the processional platforms.

Visiting the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Xiqueta is a unique experience that invites spiritual reflection and admiration of its architecture and historical richness. The basilica has become a place of meeting and spirituality for Benisseros and pilgrims, who come to participate in the liturgy, receive the sacraments and attend cultural events and concerts.