Parroquia San Ignacio de Loyola

Gazing at the Parroquia San Ignacio de Loyola, a question arises: how did a church dedicated to the founder of the Jesuits rise from the ashes of a former English college? The Parroquia San Ignacio de Loyola stands as a testament to resilience and transformation. It occupies a site rich in history. This site once housed the Colegio de Ingleses, founded in 1611 by Caesar Bogacio. Following the expulsion of the Jesuits in 1767, the Congregation of the Natives of Vizcaya acquired the building. They commissioned architect Francisco Moradillo to undertake extensive renovations. The revitalized temple reopened for worship in 1776. The congregation sought to modernize further. In 1895, they decided to demolish the existing structure. Architects Miguel de Olabarría and Ricardo García Guereta designed a new, more functional building. This new Parroquia San Ignacio de Loyola, complete with a residence for Trinitarian friars, was completed in 1898. Tragedy struck during the Spanish Civil War in 1936. The church was ravaged by fire, leaving only the facade, tower, and walls standing. However, the Parroquia San Ignacio de Loyola was not destined to remain a ruin. In 1942, Regiones Devastadas spearheaded the reconstruction. Architect Alberto de Acha y Urioste oversaw the project. He significantly altered the original design. The facade, in particular, was rebuilt with stone ashlar. The Parroquia San Ignacio de Loyola stands before us today as a symbol of rebirth, a phoenix risen from the ashes of conflict. Its history echoes the turbulent times it has witnessed, a reminder of the enduring power of faith and community.