DESCRIPTION
The parish church of San Juan Bautista is located in the highest part of the urban centre of Garlitos, constituting the principal architectural, religious and visual landmark of the locality.
It is a sober temple built in stone and brick, corresponding to the predominant model of rural church in the territory and standing out for its dominant presence within the urban ensemble.
HISTORY
The church originated in the 15th century, within the context of the consolidation of population centres following the reorganisation of the territory during the Late Middle Ages.
Over time, the building has undergone various enlargements and transformations, among which the construction of a chapel in 1613 stands out, carried out according to the plans of the master stonemason Juan Bautista de Montenegro, demonstrating the continuity of interventions in the temple during the Early Modern period.
HISTORICAL AND ARTISTIC DESCRIPTION
From an architectural point of view, the temple presents a simple and robust structure, with masonry walls reinforced with granite ashlar blocks at the corners and openings, ensuring its stability and durability.
The building is organised into a single nave, following the usual layout of rural temples, with an arrangement that facilitates visibility of the altar from any point inside.
Externally, the bell tower stands out as a characteristic element that not only fulfils a liturgical function but also acts as a visual landmark in the urban landscape. The main doorway features a semicircular arch, in keeping with the sobriety of the ensemble.
The chapel added in the 17th century constitutes one of the most significant elements of the building, reflecting the architectural evolution of the temple over time.
RELEVANT FIGURES RELATED TO THE POI
Juan Bautista de Montenegro, master stonemason responsible for the plans of the chapel built in 1613.
MOVABLE HERITAGE
The temple houses the elements proper to religious worship, integrated into its historical evolution, although its principal value lies in the architecture of the building itself and in its spatial configuration.
INTANGIBLE HERITAGE
The parish church constitutes the centre of the religious and social life of Garlitos, serving as the setting for the municipality’s principal celebrations and traditions.
Its close connection with the hermitage of Nuestra Señora de Nazaret is particularly noteworthy, as every 15 August the image of the Virgin is carried in procession to the church, where it remains during the festivities, especially around San Roque, before later returning to its hermitage.
This ritual cycle reinforces the role of the temple as a space for community gathering and as the centre of the locality’s most important celebrations.
