LOYOLA SHRINE
Sanctuary that constitutes one of the most singular examples of Baroque construction in the world located at the foot of Mount Izarraitz
At the foot of Mount Izarraitz, with its rocky and grey walls, the sanctuary of Loyola is imposing and serene. Allow 2 hours of visit to discover the many artistic treasures of the sanctuary and follow in the footsteps of the life of Saint Ignatius, born in 1491 and founder of the Society of Jesus.
The Basilica of Loyola, designed by the Italian architect Carlo Fontana (a disciple of Bernini) in the 17th century, is one of the most singular examples of Baroque construction in the world. The wealth of marble frescoes and porticoes carved in white stone is impressive, as are the domes, statues, chapels and ceilings in the Baroque style of this fortress. The high altar, built around 1750 by Ignacio Íbero, is in the Churrigueresque Baroque style. Admire the marble work, especially the use of the intarsia process. This technique of Italian origin consists of embedding stones of various shapes and colours in a marble support that has been hollowed out to receive them. The basilica is surmounted by a vast dome, which rises to a height of 65 metres.
The house where St. Ignatius was born, Casa Santa, is in a very good state of conservation, as it is protected within the sanctuary walls. It has a captivating diorama showing the main stages in the life of St. Ignatius.
To the north of the sanctuary, the Museum of Sacred Art displays in its two rooms a collection of liturgical objects and a plateresque style altar in mahogany wood, the work of Saturnino López Gómez.