The porch of the Church of Virgen del Pilar protects its entrance; the church is considered the only one on Formentera with this feature. This gives your stay in Pilar De La Mola a clear focus: architectural history, trails through agricultural and coastal landscapes, and crafts. Which of these shapes your itinerary depends on whether you plan to make time for church and architectural history, a route or the seasonal market.

Church and architectural history

The Church of Virgen del Pilar in La Mola was completed in 1784. The residents of La Mola had called for its construction since 1760. The period between the call for its construction and its completion gives the building a local backstory, distinct from its later designation. In 1996, the church was designated an Asset of Cultural Interest in the “historic ensemble” category. Its architectural history, distinctive entrance and designation offer different cultural and historical perspectives on the building.

Routes through landscape and cultural heritage

The El Pilar de La Mola–Es Monestir route is 2.7 kilometres long. It takes about 45 minutes on foot and 15 minutes by bicycle; the difficulty level is moderate. The route begins in a flat agricultural landscape with scattered houses and two typical cisterns. It ends near Punta des Llençó. From there, you can make out the eastern part of the neighbouring island of Eivissa. Time and difficulty information may be updated, so check it before setting out.

The El Pilar de La Mola–Faro de la Mola route offers a different perspective. It passes through a rural landscape with livestock and by a traditional house listed as architectural heritage. The routes therefore highlight different aspects: agricultural landscape and views of Eivissa on one, and rural surroundings and built heritage on the other.

Faro de la Mola: coastal setting and architecture

Faro de la Mola stands on a cliff 120 metres above sea level and offers views of the Mediterranean. It is also distinctive as a structure on Formentera: it is one of the few examples of architecture and civil engineering from the second half of the 19th century. The Consell de Formentera ensures its protection and preservation. Unlike the church, the lighthouse’s cliffside setting and the combination of 19th-century architecture and civil engineering shape how this cultural heritage site is viewed.

Crafts and viticulture

The La Mola craft market runs from May to October on Wednesdays and Sundays, from 4 to 10 pm. The island’s craftspeople present their creations there. Traditional crafts include baskets, espadrilles, jewellery and textiles, alongside contemporary works in glass, ceramics and painting. If you want to compare different forms of design, you’ll find traditional and contemporary work side by side here. As seasonal schedules may change, check the market days before your visit.

Agriculture is another local point of reference: grapevines are the main crop in the fields outside La Mola. The grapes are used to make typical regional wines. If you want to consider the agricultural side of the area as well as its buildings, trails and crafts, viticulture offers another perspective.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Es Pujols, San Ferrán De Ses Roques, Formentera, Es Caló, Platja De Migjorn, La Savina, San Francisco Javier

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