The Hermitage of San Miguel Alto is one of the highest points in the Albaicín and one of Granada's most spectacular viewpoints. It sits atop the Aceituno hill, overlooking the city and offering unforgettable views of the Albaicín, the Alhambra, and the Vega plain.
The site was originally occupied by one of the largest Nasrid towers of the defensive wall, known as the Aceituno Tower.
The tower was demolished in 1671 to build a hermitage dedicated to the Archangel Saint Michael, in remembrance of an earlier Christian temple, according to tradition.
The first Mass was celebrated on September 29, 1673, Saint Michael's Day.
During the French occupation (early 19th century), the hermitage was used as a fort and was finally destroyed in 1812. The current church was rebuilt between 1815 and 1828.