Iglesia de San Juan
A historic Catholic church known for its peaceful Franciscan atmosphere and beautiful viceroyalty-era architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Church may be more accessible
Iglesia de San Juan
Best Time
Church may be more accessible
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Catholic church known for its peaceful Franciscan atmosphere and beautiful viceroyalty-era architecture.
"An old church with a peaceful, austere Franciscan atmosphere."
🎯 Confirm Opening Hours
Check mass times or call ahead, as the church can be closed unexpectedly. :iphone:
📍 Find the Plaza First
Google Maps can be off; locate the plaza the church faces to find it easily. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Painted Wood Altar
Interior
Admire the beautiful, painted wood altar surround, a key feature of this historic church.
Franciscan Atmosphere
Interior
Experience a peaceful and austere Franciscan atmosphere within its ancient stone walls.
Viceroyalty Era Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Appreciate the beauty of this church from the viceroyalty era, both inside and out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Location & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Confirm Opening Hours
Check mass times or call ahead, as the church can be closed unexpectedly. :iphone:
📍 Find the Plaza First
Google Maps can be off; locate the plaza the church faces to find it easily. :world_map:
🎶 Enjoy the Music
If attending mass, enjoy the lovely music often featured during services. :musical_score:
🚶♀️ Walk from City Center
Conveniently located, it's a short walk from the main city center. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Confirm Opening Hours
Check mass times or call ahead, as the church can be closed unexpectedly. :iphone:
📍 Find the Plaza First
Google Maps can be off; locate the plaza the church faces to find it easily. :world_map:
🎶 Enjoy the Music
If attending mass, enjoy the lovely music often featured during services. :musical_score:
🚶♀️ Walk from City Center
Conveniently located, it's a short walk from the main city center. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Iglesia de San Juan to be a beautiful and peaceful Catholic church, often praised for its historic architecture and serene Franciscan atmosphere. While generally accessible and located near amenities, some note that opening hours can be inconsistent, and Google Maps may not always pinpoint the exact location accurately.
"Very nice Catholic Church. My mother and I attended their 10 am mass (starts around 10:30 am) and enjoyed the music and lovely, painted wood altar surround. Be aware that it faces the plaza of the same name, so at the time I posted this review, Google had the location marker as incorrect (across the street to the north). However, you can't miss it if you find the plaza first. It is conveniently located less than a 10 minute walk from the city center, and the plaza across the street has a nice playground."
Kristin Wiener
"Best Old Church to visit"
Raymond Miller
"An old church with a peaceful, austere Franciscan atmosphere. Opposite, we enjoyed San Juan Park and the Museum of Mexican Ethnic Clothing (a voluntary cooperative), which is beautiful and has a very good cafe at its entrance. There are also good dining options nearby.
On the way there, the church was closed, but when we left the museum, it was already open…"
Orizel Anguiano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Iglesia de San Juan is conveniently located less than a 10-minute walk from the city center. Simply head towards the plaza it faces, as Google Maps location markers can sometimes be inaccurate.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, its proximity to the city center suggests that public parking options or street parking in the surrounding areas might be available. It's best to check local parking regulations upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Iglesia de San Juan is generally free, though donations are often appreciated. Some sources mention a small fee for visiting specific parts or during certain times, like in Arucas, so it's wise to check locally.
Opening hours can vary, and the church may be closed during mass or for private events. It's highly recommended to confirm the schedule in advance, as some visitors have found it unexpectedly closed.
Yes, you can attend mass. Services are held, and visitors have enjoyed the music during these times. Be aware that mass times might affect general visiting hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors describe a peaceful, austere Franciscan atmosphere within the church. The interior is noted for its beauty, including a lovely painted wood altar surround.
The church is beautiful both inside and out, making it a good spot for photography. Capture the stone structure, the altar, and the overall ancient ambiance.
Yes, often Iglesia de San Juan is located near other points of interest. Nearby attractions can include parks (like San Juan Park), museums (such as the Museum of Mexican Ethnic Clothing), and dining options.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are often good dining options nearby. Some visitors have enjoyed cafes located at adjacent museums or in the vicinity of the church and its plaza.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the church's exterior stone structure and its peaceful appearance. Inside, the painted wood altar surround is a highlight. The surrounding plaza and any nearby parks also offer scenic photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or private events. Avoid using flash during mass.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the interior might be more suited for quiet observation, the surrounding areas offer opportunities for exploration. Consider visiting during times when mass is not in session to ensure easier access and a less disruptive experience for younger visitors.
⛪ Religious Pilgrims
The opportunity to witness or participate in mass adds to the spiritual experience. Be sure to research the specific history and significance of the Iglesia de San Juan you plan to visit, as many have unique stories and traditions. The austere Franciscan atmosphere can be particularly appealing to those seeking a contemplative spiritual environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
While some specific Iglesia de San Juan locations might have undergone renovations, like the one in Valencia which was largely rebuilt in Rococo style in 1765,
the core appeal often lies in their historical architecture. The presence of elements like choir stalls further enhances the historical context. Many of these churches, like the Basilica de San Juan de Letrán in Rome, hold immense historical and religious significance, with some legends even claiming relics brought from Jerusalem.
This deep history adds a layer of reverence for visitors exploring these sacred spaces. Visitor Experience & Atmosphere
Some reviews mention attending morning mass and enjoying the music, noting that the service often starts slightly later than scheduled.
While generally welcoming, it's important to be mindful of the church's primary purpose. Confirming opening hours is crucial, as unexpected closures can occur.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit