Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios
In the center of Los Llanos de Aridane, the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios houses the town's patron saint. Whitewashed façade, volcanic bell tower, and an atmosphere of genuine devotion.
The Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios stands at the heart of Los Llanos de Aridane, the second-largest town on La Palma. Built during the colonial period, this small Catholic sanctuary houses the Virgin of Remedies, the town's patron saint. Its sober white façade and squat bell tower are characteristic of Canarian religious architecture. The place remains a gathering point for locals during patron saint festivities.
What to See
The ermita features a single nave with modest interior decoration, typical of rural chapels throughout the Canaries. The main altar holds the statue of the Virgin of Los Remedios, venerated for centuries. The whitewashed façade contrasts with the bell tower built of dark volcanic stone, a material prevalent throughout the island's architecture.
History and Context
The cult of the Virgin of Remedies spread throughout the Canaries from the 16th century onward, brought by Spanish colonists. Los Llanos de Aridane, founded in the Aridane valley, adopted this Virgin as its patron saint. The ermita has undergone several restoration phases while preserving its original character. It remains a living testament to the popular devotion of the island's people.
Etiquette and Visit Rules
- Appropriate dress required: shoulders and knees covered inside.
- Silence and discretion during services or prayers in progress.
- Photography inside: check posted instructions on site before photographing.
Photography Tips
Morning light illuminates the white façade directly, ideal for sharp shots without harsh shadows. Step back to the adjacent plaza to frame the entire façade and bell tower. In late afternoon, the volcanic stone of the bell tower takes on warm tones.
Location and Access
The ermita is located in the center of Los Llanos de Aridane, just a few minutes' walk from Plaza de España, the town's lively heart. Los Llanos is accessible from Santa Cruz de La Palma via the main road that crosses the island. Intercity bus lines connect the two towns. The town center is flat and wheelchair-accessible, though the ermita's interior may have a threshold.
Nearby
- Plaza de España in Los Llanos — the main lively plaza, lined with century-old laurel trees, just steps from the ermita.
- Caldera de Taburiente National Park — spectacular volcanic crater, accessible from Los Llanos.
- Puerto Naos — black sand beach on the west coast, a short drive away.
Frequently asked questions
Access depends on local opening hours, which vary by season and celebrations. Check with the Los Llanos tourist office or inquire on site.
Shoulders and knees covered are required, as in any active Catholic place of worship in the Canaries.
Yes. Plaza de España and the covered market are just a few minutes' walk away. A half-day is enough to explore the town center.
The town celebrates its patron saint during annual patron saint festivities, typically in summer. The ermita is then the focal point of local processions and celebrations.
Intercity bus lines connect the two towns. By car, the road crosses the island's center or follows the west coast depending on your chosen route.
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