Iglesia de San Juan Bautista

The Church of San Juan Bautista de Laguardia is a parish church located in the southern sector of the historic center of this town in Rioja Alavesa, in Alava, Basque Country. It is one of the main heritage resources of Laguardia and responds to the medieval church typology also linked to the defensive organization of the population. Its construction took place between the 12th and 14th centuries, with a Romanesque start and predominantly Gothic, although there were later additions and alterations. This mixture of construction phases explains its architectural interest, as it preserves elements of transition between Romanesque and Gothic, as well as defensive solutions typical of a walled town. Among the most outstanding documented elements are the Romanesque south portico, the Gothic tower and the Latin cross plan with three naves and three apses. Also mentioned are pieces and reliefs of great artistic value, as well as a remarkable sculptural decoration of Romanesque tradition on the exterior, considered one of the most unique of Alava's heritage. The church is recognized as an Asset of Cultural Interest / Historic-Artistic Monument of national character, which confirms its historical and patrimonial relevance within Laguardia. Its exact location, to the south of the historical enclosure, reinforces its role as a key part of the town's monumental ensemble.