Can you feel the peace that seems to emanate from this small chapel? This is the Ermita Nuestra Señora de Lourdes, a sanctuary born from heartache and devotion. It’s nestled within the lush embrace of Garajonay National Park, a world away from the clamor of everyday life. The Ermita Nuestra Señora de Lourdes was built in 1935. It’s a testament to the enduring human spirit, a story that intertwines with the island’s history.
The woman behind this humble masterpiece was an Englishwoman named Florence Stephen Parry. She arrived in La Gomera seeking solace after the devastation of World War I, her heart heavy with the loss of her fiancé. Finding solace in this tranquil island and its people, she dedicated herself to creating a place of worship for the community that embraced her. She poured her grief and love into the construction, a testament to her resilience. While the chapel bears the name Ermita Nuestra Señora de Lourdes, a plaque inside tells a different tale. It asks visitors to remember Lady Florence Stephen Parry, the driving force behind its creation.
Her story reminds us that even in the face of loss, hope and faith can blossom in the most unexpected places. Take a moment to appreciate the serenity of the Ermita Nuestra Señora de Lourdes, a beacon of peace and remembrance in the heart of this breathtaking landscape.