Loyola Sanctuary
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Loyola Sanctuary - by Management
Description
The Sanctuary of Loyola is a religious complex built in the late 17th/early 18th centuries around the birthplace of Ignacio de Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, a.k.a. the Jesuits. The main structures are the sanctuary that envelops the 'Holy House' and the basilica which is notable for its Baroque portico fronted by a monumental staircase and its 20m wide dome with allegorical representations of the eight virtues made in stucco.
Access & Transport
The complex is located in Azpeitia (on the way to/from Azkoitia), 40km west of San Sebastian and 20km north of Zumarraga, the closest train station. There are some direct buses from San Sebastian. From San Sebastian by car, take the AP-8 expressway and after 26km exit 48 onto GI-631 until Azpeitia then right towards Azkoitia for 1km. Directions info under "getting here" on this page: https://loyola.global/en/basilica#
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining this activity with the Azpeitia Railway Museum, a 10min drive away. Alternatively, the coastal village of Getaria with its Balenciaga Museum (with exhibits from the fashion designer) is 25km to north and makes a good combination as a day trip from San Sebastian.
Environmental & Social
Low carbon footprint and preserves the region's architectural heritage
Conclusion
The Sanctuary and Basilica are interesting from a cultural and architectural aspect, respectively. A visit there is a good opportunity to learn about the Jesuits order and the life of its founder. May not be worth a special trip for those not really interested in religious history but if you are passing through the area then it is definitely worth a stop.
Key positive
Majestic façade and dome
Informative
Key negative
Unreliable practical info on the monument's website
Suitability
No info provided but given the staircase, a visit of the basilica looks challenging for wheelchair users
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:1h 15m
MONDAY10:00 - 13:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 13:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 13:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 13:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 13:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 13:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 13:00
MONDAY15:30 - 19:00
TUESDAY15:30 - 19:00
WEDNESDAY15:30 - 19:00
THURSDAY15:30 - 19:00
FRIDAY15:30 - 19:00
SATURDAY15:30 - 19:00
SUNDAY15:30 - 19:00