Basilica of Saint John of God

Basilica of Saint John of God tickets: which one to buy

The Basilica of San Juan de Dios stands on Calle San Juan de Dios in the centre of Granada, Andalusia, Spain, and a ticket is required, including an audio guide, which covers the basilica, the camarín and the museum. It is one of the most spectacular baroque interiors in Spain, and it is often less crowded than the Alhambra or the cathedral.

Walking tours of Granada's centre sometimes include the basilica along with the cathedral, the Royal Chapel, the Monastery of San Jerónimo, a few minutes away, and the Albaicín. The basilica is a short walk from the Gran Vía de Colón. Visitors to Granada should book the Alhambra well in advance, and the basilica is a good addition on the same day. The basilica is active, and visiting pauses during services. The audio guide explains the basilica's decoration and the life of the saint in several languages.

Visiting Basilica of Saint John of God: what to see

The basilica is dedicated to Saint John of God, a Portuguese-born man who founded a hospital in Granada in the sixteenth century and the Order of Brothers Hospitallers, which cares for the sick around the world. The basilica was built between 1737 and 1759 by the Hospitallers, next to their hospital, to hold the saint's relics, and it was designed by José de Bada in a flamboyant baroque style. The facade has two towers and statues of saints. Inside, almost every surface is covered with gold leaf, carvings, mirrors and paintings, creating an overwhelming effect. Behind the high altar, a staircase leads to the camarín, a richly decorated chapel holding the silver and gold urn with the remains of Saint John of God.

The basilica holds paintings by Diego Sánchez Saravia and frescoes on the dome. The museum displays objects related to the saint and the order. The basilica's high altar is covered with gold, and its mirrors reflect the light of the chandeliers. The dome's frescoes show the glory of Saint John of God. The side chapels hold paintings of saints related to the Hospitaller order. The camarín's walls are covered with gilded carvings and paintings. The basilica's organ is decorated with carvings. The urn of the saint is made of silver and gold, with carvings of angels. The Hospital of San Juan de Dios, beside the basilica, has a Renaissance courtyard with tiles. The basilica's towers are topped with small domes.

Basilica of Saint John of God opening hours and the best time to go

The basilica is open daily, with a break at lunchtime and shorter hours on Sundays. Granada is busy throughout the year, especially in spring and autumn. Summer is hot. The feast of Saint John of God on 8 March brings celebrations. Holy Week and Corpus Christi are important in Granada, with processions. The basilica's interior is best seen in the morning, when the light is good. Allow about forty minutes for the basilica and camarín, and walk to the Monastery of San Jerónimo nearby. The Monastery of San Jerónimo, a few minutes' walk away, holds the tomb of the Gran Capitán and a Renaissance cloister with orange trees.