A newly restored San Blas will be at the heart of this weekend’s fiestas in San Javier!

The original wooden statue is thought to date from the 19^th century

The eagerly awaited Romería of San Blas takes place next Tuesday 3rd February in Santiago de la Ribera (click here for the full programme of a very busy weekend indeed!), and the figure of the Saint, who leaves with a large number of accompanying locals from the church of Santiago Apóstol in San Javier to the small church dedicated to his name, will be looking a lot more impressive than has been the case in recent years after a complete restoration.

The restoration has been financed entirely by the Town Hall, through the Department of Culture, and on Sunday 25^th January Councillor David Martínez and Mayor José Miguel Luengo officially presented the new-look San Blas after Mass. Also present was the restorer herself, Loreto López Martínez, who explained that as well as being thoroughly cleaned the figure required structural reinforcement work. In addition, the original paintwork has been consolidated without any alteration to the original colouring.

At the same time, a wooden plinth has been added, replacing the original one which was affected by woodworm, thus avoiding any spread of the infestation to the statue itself. The new plinth is made of marble and features gold leaf trimmings, true to the style of the 19^th century, when the figure was originally created.

Although exact details are not known of when the sculpture was made and by whom, it is possible to locate the date in the 19th century by the technique used to represent the eyes with glass balls, according to Sra López Martínez, although it is also possible that it is in fact older and the eyes were altered after its creation.

For more local events, news and visiting information contact the tourist offices of San Javier (main contact number 661 572285) or go to the home page of San Javier Today.