Idioma

The hermitage of San Juan

The Hermitage of San Juan, located at the foot of the Montgó Natural Park, in the district of Sant Joan, is one of the most outstanding of the so-called “Conquest Hermitages” built between the 15th and 16th centuries in the bay of Dénia. It is characterized by its unique architectural combination of Gothic (single nave with pointed arches) and Renaissance styles (Serlian portico of local sandstone from the 16th century), and preserves pavements with Sevillian tiles from the 17th century.

In the 17th century, this place was home to the Brotherhood of “Negres”, a community of African slaves converted to Christianity, which adds to its historical and social value. During the feast of St. John, from June 20 to 24, the hermitage opens its doors to welcome the traditional local pilgrimage, which includes mass, distribution of blessed bread and popular celebration in a festive and communal environment.

 

Information

  • Camí Nou to the Hermitage of Sant Juan.
  • Free outdoor access

  • Price: Free

Why visit

  • Architectural style: mixture of original Gothic with Renaissance portico and remains of original sacristy.
  • Location: natural environment in the Montgó mountain, in the lower part which is an urbanized area, near the Natural Park located in the middle and upper part of the mountain. The hermitage is accessible on foot and by car.
  • Walking option: hiking route of low difficulty and duration of about 30 minutes one way, with a distance of 2 km one way. Departure from Diana street towards Montgó mountain following the Camí de Sant Joan until the detours to the hermitage by Camí Vell de l’ermita and Camí Nou.
  • Visit: it is only open during the pilgrimage of San Juan; the rest of the year it remains closed and only the exterior can be observed.
  • Festivity: San Juan, June 24. Pilgrimage of San Juan, from June 20 to 24.

Recommendations

  • About 600 meters away is the hermitage of Pare Pere, so you can continue the route to the hermitage and even continue on foot along the Camí de la Colonia that leads to the hiking trails through the Natural Park.
  • One kilometer from the hermitage of Sant Joan is the hermitage of Santa Llúcia. In this case, in another direction. We have to retrace our steps and turn off at Assagador de Santa Lucia, towards the hermitage.