The Story Behind Sant Joan de Missa
Nestled in the Migjorn area of Ciutadella, the small rural hermitage known today as Sant Joan de Missa has a rich past that ties directly into the famous Sant Joan festival. Over the centuries it has been called Sant Joan d’Artrutx, des Monastrell, and even Saint John the Evangelist. Its changing names reflect how the community’s devotion has evolved while keeping the spirit of the celebration alive.
From Sant Joan d’Artrutx to Sant Joan de Missa
Originally the hermitage was dedicated to Saint John the Evangelist, one of Jesus’ closest followers. Later, the focus shifted to Saint John the Baptist, whose feast is celebrated on August 29 with the traditional Caragol des Born and Vespers. This shift mirrors the wider pattern seen in places like the Basilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome, which honors both the Evangelist and the Baptist alongside the Savior.
A Gift from José Guillermo Díaz Montañés
In recent years, Bishop Gerard Villalonga wanted to revive the hermitage’s original dedication to the Evangelist. The opportunity came when José Guillermo Díaz Montañés, president of Artiem Hotels, discovered an old statue of Saint John the Evangelist tucked away in the Audax hotel in Cala Galdana. He generously donated the piece to the Diocese of Menorca.
Restoration by Joana Casasnovas
The statue and its base were in rough shape, so the Bishop entrusted the restoration to Joana Casasnovas, a well‑known expert on the island. Joana cleaned the artwork, repaired damages, and brought back the original colors. Although we don’t know exactly where the statue first stood, her work revealed its hidden beauty.
Finding the Right Home
The Diocese didn’t want the statue to sit behind glass as a museum piece. After talking with Joan F. Camps Serra, the rector and chaplain of the Artrtux hermitage, they decided to place it in one of the hermitage’s chapels, accompanied by a short explanation about its history. Now the restored image rests where visitors can see it, pray before it, and feel connected to the island’s religious roots.
Celebrating on August 29
Every year on August 29 the hermitage comes alive with Vespers after the Caragol des Born procession. The celebration honors Saint John the Baptist, but the restored statue reminds everyone of the Evangelist’s original role in the site’s story. The eagle and the Gospel—symbols traditionally linked to Saint John the Evangelist—will accompany the blessing ceremony, linking past and present.
Conclusion
The journey of the Saint John the Evangelist statue—from a forgotten hotel corridor to a place of prayer in Sant Joan de Missa—shows how community effort, generous donors, and skilled restoration can bring history back to life. Today, teens and visitors alike can see a piece of Menorca’s faith heritage, reflect on its meaning, and join in the vibrant celebrations that keep the spirit of Sant Joan alive.
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Images Credit: www.menorca.info