Ermita de Sa Creu d’en Ribes

Slipping on the loose stones, the woodcutter scrambled upwards, the devil’s laughter echoing in his ears. He finally collapsed at the summit of Puig den Ribes, gasping for breath, the taunting presence vanishing as if swallowed by the earth. Right here, on this very spot, he later built the Ermita de Sa Creu d’en Ribes, a small sanctuary of thanks for his miraculous escape. The Ermita de Sa Creu d’en Ribes, perched atop Puig den Ribes, offers breathtaking views of the bay of Santa Eulària des Riu, the sparkling sea, and the island’s tranquil interior. Built in 1858 by Pedro Juan, also known as Pedro Puet, this small rectangular chapel is more than just a place of worship. It’s a vessel of local legends, a beacon of faith, and a testament to the enduring power of stories. A small ceramic plaque inside commemorates its construction. One of the oldest chapels in Ibiza, the Ermita de Sa Creu d’en Ribes holds a unique distinction. Despite its modest size, a mere 5.54 meters long and 4.30 meters wide, it boasts two separate rooms: a small sacristy and an oratory. Every year, on the First Sunday of May, the faithful embark on a romeria, a pilgrimage to the summit. They visit the Ermita de Sa Creu d’en Ribes to partake in traditional rites and celebrate the spirit of this little sanctuary. But beyond the annual festivities, the Ermita de Sa Creu d’en Ribes is steeped in an enigmatic aura. Visitors often feel a strange energy as they ascend the steep, narrow path through the woods. The legend of the woodcutter and the devil is just one of the tales woven into the fabric of this place. Another tradition involves circling the Ermita de Sa Creu d’en Ribes seven times before entering. This ritual is believed to ward off disputes and problems with loved ones. Once the ritual is complete, visitors can explore the chapel’s interior. Inside, they find votive offerings, flickering candles, and personal mementos left by those seeking solace or expressing gratitude. Or they simply rest beneath the shade of the surrounding pines, absorbing the serene atmosphere. So, as you stand before the Ermita de Sa Creu d’en Ribes, remember the woodcutter’s desperate flight, the devil’s disappearing act, and the enduring faith that led to the creation of this unique sanctuary. Feel the weight of the legends, and appreciate the panoramic view. Let the whispers of history and the rustle of the pines weave their magic around you.