Having Fun Pronouncing that Name?
I had read about this place long before it became a film set for The Game of Thrones.
I had always wanted to climb those stairs and go to the Chapel up top.
These are my photos that I took of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe this morning:
HISTORY OF SAN JUAN de GAZTELUGATXE:
Many will recognize San Juan de Gaztelugatxe as the island fortress of “Dragonstone” from season 7 of Game of Thrones, however, its real name can be translated as “castle rock” from Basque (“gaztelu” = castle + “aitz” = rock).
Located just off the shore along the Bay of Biscay and 35 km (22 miles) east from Bilbao, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a definite “must” if you are visiting the Basque Country. The island is connected to the mainland by a man-made stone bridge. The bridge transitions into a narrow path that contains 241 steps and zigzags its way back and forth to the top. Once there, you will find the church which has a bell situated along the front of its facade. According to legend, after you have completed the climb, you should ring the bell three times and make a wish.
The church on top of the island is dedicated to John the Baptist. Although not proven, it has been said that he even set foot on the island. The small church is however, not original. Over the centuries the church has burned down and been rebuilt several times. It is believed that the first hermitage that existed here was erected in the 9th century. In the 12th century, it became a convent. However, two centuries later, the friars abandoned it taking with them everything of value.
I AM EXHAUSTED AND NEED A DAYTIME NAP AFTER THAT ADVENTURE!
After my climb, I missed the first bus back to Bilbao so I killed time on the beach in the town of Baiko.
I have a funny story to share with you. It happened while I was waiting for the bus this afternoon. In Spain, they really conserve their use of electricity. When you go into a public washroom, often the lights are on sensors and go out on you if you are not quick!
I forgot about that until I was standing there doing my business when all of a sudden the light went out and it was pitch black. I knew that if I just waved my arms around, the light would come back on. Since I was in the middle of doing my “business”, I decided to wait until I finished before I flailed about getting the lights to come back on.
I did burst out laughing because I immediately knew what was going on because that happens all the time throughout Spain!
You MUST be very quick if you want to finish everything before the lights go off. I think it’s impossible to be that fast 😂😂😂.
Here are photos going up to the top today and from the top!
The Chapel at the Top!
Yes, I rang the bell 3 times!
Views Beyond Beautiful!
KEEP WALKING!
Bathroom stories are always hilarious. Looks like a wonderful climb and the air must have been wonderful. A nap and some delicious wine are well deserved.
Haha😅, you are hilarious. Aside that, what a treasure of photos you shared and of course the story. Ultreia
Thank You!
I was so excited to see it!
Blown away, Dan! These photos and settings are absolutely stunning! Did you see any dragons?
I have NEVER seen one episode of Game of Thrones. Those who were who were fans were going crazy. I was too busy minding my back as I climbed. I felt like a dragon was breathing on me as the climb had me hotter than hell!