Sant Mateu Church, Sant Mateu d'Albarca
Pretty church that is central to this tiny western village
There is not much to the village of Sant Mateu in the west of the island of Ibiza, but the church takes up a fairly large mass of land in the middle of it.
With only a few restaurants and a pub for company this church is possibly one of the only reasons to visit the village. As with many of the churches on the island this one is white washed, has a large open-fronted vestibule and a traditional style bell tower which features not one, but two bells.
Although it was built in the 18th century the purpose of the church here was purely religious, and not defensive as with many others built around this time. In the interior you will find that the original pulpit has been retained, although is no longer in use.
The blue and gold alter is fairly elaborate for such a small village church and depicts Saint Matthew in the centre with the Virgin Mary and Saint Michael on either side.
