The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church in Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a special church, both in beauty and historic importance. The first mentions of this church were already found in the 12th century, however, the real construction of the church was in the 15th century.
The church is located, like most churches, quite in the centre of the city.
Back in 1660, the French King Louis XIV and the Cardinal Mazarin were negotiating with the King of Spain to end the bloody war that had endured for 30 years. They finally signed a treaty called the “Treaty of the Pyrenees”.
One of the most important points was that the King Louis XIV was to marry the King Philip IV of Spain’s eldest daughter, Marie-Therese, known as L’Infanta. Which he did, in this church on the 9th of June 1660.
After the wedding, the door through which the royal couple entered the church was permanently closed so that no others could go through the same door.
But not to worry, there are other entrances to the church, including the main door:
Main door of the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Side with the main door of the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Saint-Jean-de-LuzOnce inside, you will be surprised:
Apart from the very imposing altar, you will see three levels above the ground floor where worshippers could go. And since this is a fisher town, you will see a model fishing boat hanging from the ceiling.
From the rear of the church, you can not only see the beautiful organ but clearly the different levels above it.
Statues in the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Tapestry and decorations in the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Golden altar in the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Saint-Jean-de-LuzEven the pulpit is fancy:
Summary
A visit to this church is a must if you are in the area. It has played a very historic role between Spain and France. And not only that, with the three upper levels, it makes this church stand out.
TIP: If you are visiting and the church is dark, on the right side in the front you will find a box. Feed it coins, and the lights will go on.
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