The hermitage is one of the most important elements of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. A building strategically located on the top of the islet that allows us to contemplate a large part of the cliffs that separate the towns of Bakio and Bermeo. An impressive panoramic view, which, together with the hermitage itself, the stairs and the bridge create an idyllic, movie-like space. We leave you all the information about the hermitage.
History of the hermitage.
The origin of the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe dates back to the IX century. A strategic space for the defense of the province of Bizkaia that with the passage of time, in the twelfth century, became a convent. In the fourteenth century, the supporters of the Lord of Bizkaia, used San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in the bastion from which they opposed the entry of Alfonso XI. As a consequence, the hermitage suffered several attacks. This was not the only historical moment in which the hermitage suffered attacks, since the pirate Drake and the French corsairs also attacked San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. In the 15th century, this temple was joined to the Church of San Pelaio de Bakio, becoming an important temple in the area. The last known attack was in 1978, when the hermitage was set on fire and destroyed. It is worth mentioning that there was a small cemetery next to the original church, far from the nearby urban centers (Bakio and Bermeo), where coins from 1217 have been found. We must take into account that the hermitage that we find today is the result of the reform that was carried out in 1886. At that time, the structure underwent major changes, including a change of orientation.
Timetable of the hermitage.
The hermitage is closed most of the year. In fact, it only opens its doors to celebrate masses on June 24 (St. John), July 31 (St. Ignatius of Loyola) and August 29 (St. John Degollado). As you can see, the hermitage does not have a guided tour program.
Access to the hermitage.
Access to the hermitage is conditioned by the capacity limit. As we have already mentioned, it is necessary to get a ticket during high season. We recommend you to take a look at the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe entries section. In any case, the only way to reach the hermitage is by following the complete route. That is, descending the cliff until you reach the bridge that connects the mainland with the islet and then climbing the 241 stairs.
Temple in honor of San Juan Bautista.
The hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe honors San Juan Bautista. According to popular belief, after disembarking in the port of Bermeo, John the Baptist visited San Juan de Gaztelugatxe taking 3 gigantic steps. In fact, to this day we can see their footprints in the arch of San Juan de Bermeo, in the hamlet of Itsasalde in the Arane neighborhood, in the top of Burgoa and on the last step of the stairs of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. In fact, they say that if we step on this last footprint it will bring us luck.
Architecture.
The hermitage that we contemplate at the present time is not the original one. Due to the different battles and fires that have occurred throughout history, the church has undergone several reconstructions. The hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is currently a rectangular building built with masonry walls and a two-slope roof. An emblematic structure, which unfortunately does not have its original appearance.
The bell.
The bell of the chapel of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe has been for centuries one of its most important elements. In fact, tradition has it that the bell of the chapel should be rung up to 3 times to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. Unfortunately, the rope that activates the bell has now been removed to prevent the bell’s ringing from disturbing the seabirds that inhabit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
Interior of the hermitage.
The interior of the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe keeps some of the treasures of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Most of the elements found inside are related to the sea, the fishermen and the events that occurred in the area. Among all of them, the battle of Matxitxako and the gale of 1912 stand out. Paintings, religious figures, paintings and ship models adorn the walls and ceilings of the chapel. Ex-votos and offerings that mean a lot to the people of Bermeo and Urdaibai.
Pilgrimage to the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
The residents of Bakio, Bermeo, Arrieta and Meñaka continue their pilgrimage to the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe along old abandoned roads that run along the slopes of Mount Sollube. One of the most important pilgrimages is the traditional pilgrimage held on July 24 from the neighboring town of Bermeo. A feast, in which people make the journey on foot to give thanks for the promises made.
Traditions.
Although the most emblematic traditions of the hermitage are associated with ringing the bell to ask for a good sea or to heal illnesses, there are other traditions related to fishermen. Did you know that at the beginning of the bonito fishing season, boats approach San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and turn three times to port and starboard to ask the saint to protect the boat and help them have a good fishing season? On the other hand, the image of the Virgin of Begoña (patron saint of Bilbao and Bizkaia), which was submerged next to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in 1963, sees how every year floral offerings are made with the same motifs.
How much does it cost to visit the wayside shrine?
The fee to visit the hermitage is 0€. Access to the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is free of charge.
How long does it take to go up to the hermitage?
Approximately 1 hour. Although, like everything else, it depends on the physical condition of each person.