Ermita de Santa María Madre del Amor Hermoso

The Ermita de Santa María Madre del Amor Hermoso is a stone and brick hermitage on the University of Navarre campus. The structure has arched openings on three sides, a square base, and a sloped roof topped with a wrought iron weathervane.

The hermitage was designed by architect Heliodoro Dols and founded by Josemaría Escrivá. It opened on December 8, 1966, with Archbishop Enrique Delgado Gómez presiding over the inaugural ceremony for students and residents.

Inside, a mosaic shows angels playing instruments, and a seated Virgin figure holds the Christ child above books. These artworks reflect the close connection between faith and learning that defines this place.

The hermitage welcomes visitors throughout the year and offers a quiet space for reflection within the university campus. It is easily accessible and serves as an important location for religious ceremonies and prayer.

The design blends traditional elements from Navarrese shrines with modern university campus aesthetics. This combination makes it a rare example of how historic architectural traditions fit into contemporary academic settings.

Location: Navarre

Inception: December 8, 1966

Founders: Josemaría Escrivá

Architects: Heliodoro Dols

Made from material: stone, brick

GPS coordinates: 42.80379,-1.66383

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:25