Rising serenely above the bustle of the Plaza Mayor, the Church of St. John the Baptist provides a cool refuge on a hot, busy day in Chiclana de la Frontera. The earliest church on this site was built in 1510, but in the 1770s, this neoclassical temple began to take shape. Completed in 1814, it quickly became one of the most important religious buildings in the area, marked by its distinctive architecture. Take time to appreciate its beauty or simply relax on the adjacent plaza.
Pause before its façade, decorated with columns reflecting a neoclassical heritage. Note the image of St. John the Baptist, patron saint of the church and town. A balustrade lines the exterior. Enter through the semicircular arch leading into the small atrium and opening out into the elegant vaults of the central nave.
Imagine this church during the Napoleonic wars, when it was occupied by French troops that had invaded the city. Relief carvings decorate the vaults, giving the building an elaborate look while the light color provides an airy feeling.
Admire the non-traditional central altarpiece and explore the decorations of the church’s smaller altars. Two Baroque canvases are attributed to the school of Zurbarán, one of the finest Golden Age painter of Spain. Notice the fine examples of goldsmithing. Sit in the pews of one of the small side chapels, absorbing the energy of the artistry surrounding you. A narrow staircase near the sacristy leads through an arch made of oyster stone to a crypt. Check to see if any events such as talks, book discussions and views of religious works are scheduled during your visit.
The Church of St. John the Baptist is located in the center of Chiclana de la Frontera’s Old Town, on the Plaza Mayor. Walk through the adjacent Torre de Reloj, which substitutes for two towers planned but never built. Reach the Town Hall in 6 minutes on foot. Parking is available in a few parking garages or on streets within a few blocks. The church is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday in the mornings and evenings.
