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Culture
Hermitage of Sant Elm
One of the jewels that the municipality of Sant Feliu de Guíxols treasures is this small hermitage dating from the 13th century. Built on an old fortification, dating back to 1203, stone was used with reinforced corners and polished stone in the openings. Its façade boasts several large buttresses.
The ground plan of the hermitage is rectangular and from the surrounding area, its gable roof can be made out. The facade, although quite simple, includes a central door with steps and two windows. The coat of arms of Sant Feliu de Guíxols dated 1724 presides above the main door.
This place of worship saw its best days in the 16th century and was destroyed by the French army in 1696. After its first restoration, carried out in 1724, it was used to dedicated in honour of the Lady of the Good Journey (la Virgen del Buen Viaje). The current appearance corresponds to the restoration carried out in 1933 and it pertains to the town of Sant Elm.
Legend has it that in this enclave, from which you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coast, the writer Ferran Agulló y Vidal found his inspiration to baptize the Girona coast as Costa Brava. This term was coined by the artist to describe the rugged landscape that characterises this coast. In honour of this, the municipality of Sant Feliu commissioned a commemorative plaque.
In mid-October, the Pilgrimage of the Virgin of Buen Viaje takes place, during which the inhabitants come to the hermitage and, after an early mass, various events take place such as craft exhibition (bobbin lace and cross stitch), folk dances, arrosada popular (preparation of rice-based dishes), rosco (round-shaped pastries) and wine - all organised by the Association of Friends of the Hermitage and Sites of Sant Elm.