Iglesia de los Santos Juanes (Saint Johns' Church), Bilbao

Saint Johns' Church stands as a quietly elegant testament to 17th‑century ecclesiastical architecture. This Baroque‑classical style parish church, with its subdued yet dignified stone façade framed by three vertical sections, brings a refined grace to the narrow lanes and bustling plazas surrounding it.

Construction of the church began in 1622 under the guidance of the Jesuit architect Padre Ramírez, and progressed over two decades. The initial phases covered most of the structure, while the crossing and chancel were added later by prominent stonemasons beginning in 1672.

Originally serving as the church for the Jesuit College of Saint Andrew, it transitioned into the hands of the Bilbao municipality following the Jesuits’ expulsion in 1767, and soon thereafter was designated as the parish for the Saints John, the ancient devotion to Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist.

Inside, the church unfolds a rich visual narrative emblematic of Baroque artistry. Its Latin‑cross layout features a central nave flanked by side chapels. Among the most stunning interior elements is the high altar, a late 17th‑century work of naturalist Baroque style, ornately detailed with spiraling Salomonic columns adorned with grape motifs, elaborate paintings, and expressive detailing. Noteworthy are also the six side‑chapel altarpieces of similar era, along with distinctive 18th‑century pieces, including a unique Sacred Heart altar.