San Juan de Dios Church, Granada (must see)

The San Juan de Dios Church is located on the street of the same name. Both are named after Juan Duarte, a local monk who arrived in Granada in 1536. In a time of hardship for the city and surrounding region, Duarte dedicated his life to caring for the sick and needy. He died in Casa de los Pisa in 1550, and was later canonized. The city’s main hospital also bears his name. Inside this stunning baroque church, you can see the silver urn, held within a raised shrine, which contains his ashes.

The church was erected in the 17th century, as a sanctuary and crypt for Juan Duarte. It was designed by Jose de Bada y Navajas, the high master of cathedrals in Granada and Malaga. Designed in a Latin cruciform plan, it is notable for its collection of paintings and sculpture, added soon after the church was completed. The main altar was designed by Francisco Guerrero, and is made from gilded wood. A four room chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary can be found above the sacristy, close to the shrine to San Juan de Dios.

The church of San Juan de Dios is located in the very centre of Granada. It is open from 10am until 1pm, and from 4pm to 7pm, in summer. The church closes at 6pm during the winter months.