San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

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San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a tiny picturesque island on the coast of Biscay in Basque Country. On top of the island stands a hermitage dedicated to San Juan. It dates from the 10th century, although certain discoveries indicate the 9th century.

It is a small church, which is usually closed, that apparently belonged to the Knights Templar. In 1053, it was donated by Íñigo López, the first lord of Biscay, to the monastery of San Juan de la Peña. In 1593 the hermitage was attacked and robbed by Francis Drake. Among other incidents, it was caught on fire for several times. In 1978 it was destroyed by such a fire. Two years later, it was reopened.

Hermitage access is made via a narrow road, which crosses the solid stone bridge, climbing 237 stairs. According to the legend, after the tiresome climbing, one should ring a bell for three times and make a wish.

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