Ever wonder why this simple building, Ermita de las Nieves, is so important to La Gomera? This is no grand cathedral. Yet the Ermita de las Nieves holds a special place in the hearts of the locals.
The Ermita de las Nieves is located about 16 kilometers from the capital. It sits at roughly 1200 meters above sea level. The road leading here was once unpaved. Locals remember seeing many rabbits scurrying about, especially at dusk. The road is paved now. Some say the old dirt road had a certain charm.
Gomeros visit the Ermita de las Nieves for all sorts of celebrations. There is plenty of parking. Inside the Ermita de las Nieves once stood an old Gothic statue of the Virgin Mary. It had darker skin. The statue was later placed behind a wall when a new one arrived. Years later it was found. After some repairs, it now resides in the Asunción de San Sebastian church. Today, it is known as the Virgen de la Salud. People believe she cured a young girl.
Some think knights templar brought the statue. Others say Christopher Columbus himself brought it. The Ermita de las Nieves dates back to the mid-16th century. It has been renovated since then. The person with the key can be hard to find.
Bachelor parties and birthdays happen here. Even weddings occur at the Ermita de las Nieves. There are tables, ovens, and grills for cooking.
The building itself is simple. It is rectangular. There is plenty of space to dance. Dancing is essential on this island. The Ermita de las Nieves has stunning views. You can see everything from up here. It is often quite cold. Even with layers of clothing, you might still feel a chill.
The Teide volcano can be visible on a clear day. The Virgen de las Nieves is not the island’s patron saint. That honor belongs to the Virgen de Guadalupe. Her shrine is in Puntallana.
People gather to cook typical dishes. They prepare papas, pork, stews, grilled meats, and rabbit. Local wine accompanies the food. The white wine is quite strong. As you eat, you can see all the island’s mountains. Drinking helps you stay warm.
The recreational area of the Ermita de las Nieves is located about 20 km from San Sebastián. It is an excellent location to view the sky. It has ample parking and nice barbecue areas with tables. It is a good idea to set an alarm to wake up early and enjoy a magnificent sunrise.
So, as you stand here, remember the history. Remember the celebrations. Feel the cool air. See the views. The Ermita de las Nieves is more than just a building. It is a place of community. It is a place of tradition. It is a place of celebration high above La Gomera.