Ermita de San Diego del Monte
A historic 1615 monastery turned private residence, known for its founder's tomb and the 'San Diego Escape Day' tradition.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mass is held, offering access
Ermita de San Diego del Monte
Best Time
Mass is held, offering access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1615 monastery turned private residence, known for its founder's tomb and the 'San Diego Escape Day' tradition.
"A historic site where religious and pagan concepts intertwine, often closed but accessible during Mass."
🎯 Sunday Mass for Entry
Visit on Sunday mornings for Mass to ensure the chapel is open. :church:
📅 Festival Day Access
The hermitage opens around Nov 13th for San Diego's feast day. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Founder's Tomb and Sculpture
Interior
See the marble tombstone of founder Don Juan de Ayala and his praying sculpture.
Main Altarpiece
Interior
Admire images of the Virgin of the Angels, Saint Diego, and Saint Francis.
San Diego Escape Day Tradition
Exterior/Surrounding Area
Experience the historic student tradition of counting buttons on the founder's statue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Access
A Glimpse into History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sunday Mass for Entry
Visit on Sunday mornings for Mass to ensure the chapel is open. :church:
📅 Festival Day Access
The hermitage opens around Nov 13th for San Diego's feast day. :calendar:
🤫 Respect Private Residence
Remember it's a private residence, so be mindful of noise and respect. :pray:
📸 Check Opening Times
It's usually closed; confirm hours before your visit. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sunday Mass for Entry
Visit on Sunday mornings for Mass to ensure the chapel is open. :church:
📅 Festival Day Access
The hermitage opens around Nov 13th for San Diego's feast day. :calendar:
🤫 Respect Private Residence
Remember it's a private residence, so be mindful of noise and respect. :pray:
📸 Check Opening Times
It's usually closed; confirm hours before your visit. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors note the historical significance of the Ermita de San Diego del Monte, particularly its origins as a 1615 monastery and the unique 'San Diego Escape Day' tradition. Access is limited, often requiring a visit during Sunday Mass or around the San Diego festival in November. While it's a private residence, its historical artifacts and blend of traditions make it a point of interest for those seeking local heritage.
"A picturesque corner of La Laguna, the Hermitage of San Diego del Monte originated as a former convent, now a private residence. It was founded in 1615 by Don Juan de Ayala as a monastery and convent.
Inside, two marble plaques are preserved: one in honor of its founder, accompanied by a marble sculpture in a praying position, and another plaque of Fray Juan de Jesús, ‘Servant of God,’ the monk who dedicated his life to the convent and its upkeep. The main altarpiece features images of the Virgin of the Angels, Saint Diego, and Saint Francis, as well as paintings of Saint Dominic with the crucified Christ.
It is usually closed, although in November, on the feast day of Saint Diego, it opens to the public on November 13th. Traditionally, since the beginning of the 20th century, it has been visited by students of the IES Canarias Cabrera Pinto, formerly the ‘Instituto de Canarias,’ who established the popular “Day of the Escape of Saint Diego.”
Students usually count the buttons on the statue of the founder of the convent, since, according to tradition, this served to pass the exam."
Jose Ag
"A former convent, now a private residence. It is usually closed, although it opens to the public in November on the feast day of San Diego (around November 13). It became popular, from the early decades of the 20th century, as a place visited by students from the Instituto de Canarias (now IES CANARIAS CABRERA PINTO), establishing the popular San Diego Escape Day."
JULIAN BRITO SERR
"A historic site in La Laguna where religious and pagan concepts intertwine.
A visit is required on Sunday morning if you want to find the open entrance and enter the chapel."
Juanca Romero
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ermita de San Diego del Monte is located in La Laguna. Public transport options are available within the city, but specific routes may vary. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider a taxi for direct access. mentions visiting La Ermita in Salcaja as part of a Xela itinerary, suggesting local transport is key.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce. If driving, be prepared to search for street parking in the surrounding neighborhood. shows a ranch setting, implying rural access might be easier.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The hermitage is typically closed to the public. It usually opens for Mass on Sundays at 12:30 PM and is accessible around November 13th for the San Diego festival. +1
No tickets are required for entry. Access is generally granted during specific times like Sunday Mass or the San Diego festival.
Weekday visits are generally not possible as the hermitage is usually closed. It's best to plan your visit for a Sunday morning or around the festival dates.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Ermita de San Diego del Monte.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can find two marble tombstones, one honoring the founder Don Juan de Ayala, and another for Fray Juan de Jesús. The main altarpiece features images of the Virgin of the Angels, Saint Diego, and Saint Francis.
This popular tradition, dating back to the early 20th century, involves students from IES Canarias Cabrera Pinto visiting the hermitage and counting the buttons on the founder's statue. +1
The historical architecture and religious artifacts can make for interesting photographs, especially during open hours. shows a scenic, potentially photogenic rural setting.
Founded in 1615 as a monastery and convent by Don Juan de Ayala, it's a historic site where religious and pagan concepts intertwine. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the hermitage itself is a historical site, the surrounding La Laguna area offers numerous dining options. You can find local eateries and cafes to enjoy after your visit. mentions a favorite restaurant in Xela, indicating a focus on local dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture and the interior altarpiece are key photographic subjects. Capturing the historical ambiance, especially during open hours, can yield great shots. hints at picturesque rural settings that might surround such hermitages.
Photography inside is generally permitted during open hours, but it's always respectful to be discreet, especially during religious services.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining a visit with other family-friendly activities in La Laguna. Since the hermitage itself doesn't offer extensive amenities for kids, focus on the historical aspect and keep the visit relatively short. Ensure you check opening times beforehand to avoid disappointment.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss learning about the 'San Diego Escape Day' tradition, a unique cultural practice that has endured for over a century. This event showcases the site's ongoing relevance and its connection to the local community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Tradition
The hermitage holds a special place in local lore, particularly through the 'San Diego Escape Day'. This tradition, which began in the early 20th century, sees students from the IES Canarias Cabrera Pinto visiting the site. A key part of this ritual involves counting the buttons on the statue of the founder, Don Juan de Ayala, a practice steeped in local folklore.
Inside, visitors can observe two marble tombstones, one dedicated to the founder and another to Fray Juan de Jesús, a monk devoted to the convent's upkeep. The main altarpiece is adorned with images of the Virgin of the Angels, Saint Diego, and Saint Francis, alongside canvases depicting Saint Dominic and the crucified Christ. These elements contribute to the hermitage's rich historical and spiritual narrative.
Accessing the Ermita: Planning Your Visit
It's crucial to confirm opening times before making your journey, as the hermitage's status as a private residence means access is not guaranteed. Social media and local forums often provide the most up-to-date information.
For those interested in the unique San Diego Escape Day tradition, planning a visit around November is essential. This event highlights the enduring connection between the local student community and the historical site, offering a glimpse into a living tradition.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit