Ermita de San Telmo (Hermitage of San Telmo), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The Hermitage of San Telmo, boasting one of the most exquisite altarpieces on the island of Gran Canaria, stands as a remarkable example of Mudejar architecture adorned with a Gothic-Renaissance facade. Its origins trace back to the 16th century when the first hermitage dedicated to San Pedro González Telmo was established. However, in 1599, the hermitage fell victim to the devastating attack led by the privateer Pieter van der Does and was subsequently destroyed. Reconstruction efforts commenced in 1604, giving rise to the present-day structure that continues to captivate visitors with its historical significance and architectural splendor.

Throughout its storied history, the Hermitage of San Telmo has served as a place of prayer and a central hub for the brotherhood of the seafarers' or sailors' guild. Additionally, it has functioned as a burial site, preserving the memory of those who once frequented its sacred halls. Today, the hermitage has been repurposed as the parish church of San Bernardo and holds the esteemed designation of being declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, underscoring its importance as a cultural and historical landmark in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

The architectural layout of the Hermitage of San Telmo is characterized by a rectangular plan featuring two longitudinal bays. The larger bay encompasses the nave of the church, covered by a dual-pitched roof, while the presbytery, distinguished by its taller stature, boasts a triple-pitched roof. Notable architectural elements within the hermitage include the intricately decorated fajón arch and the Mudejar coffered ceilings, both of which exemplify the exquisite craftsmanship of the era. Moreover, visitors are treated to the sight of the Baroque-style main altarpiece and the vibrant polychrome panels that adorn the interior, each contributing to the hermitage's undeniable allure and historical significance.