The patron of San Javier prepares for a trip to Murcia

Restoration work will be carried out on the figure of San Francisco Javier

The carved figure of San Francisco Javier, patron of the municipality of San Javier, will be undertaking a journey in the next few days to the restoration Centre of the Region of Murcia to undergo a detailed study prior to a general makeover, paving the way for his return to the main altarpiece of the parish church.

This follows a visit to the church by the Director of Cultural Heritage of the Region of Murcia, Patricio Sánchez, who along with Mayor Patricio Sánchez inspected the image which was damaged by fire during the Civil War in 1936 and subsequently restored by Antonio Carrión. This was the last time any repairs or restoration was carried out.

It is hoped that during the restoration clues may be found regarding the history and origin of the image, which at the moment is attributed to no individual artist.

The figure of San Francisco Javier thus becomes the fourth in the municipality to be restored, following those of the Cristo de las Ánimas (a wooden figure attributed to Nicolas Salzillo), Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno (the work of Nicolás de Bussy) and the old figure of San Blas. It is not yet known when San Francisco Javier will return to his home in the parish church as the date depends on the findings of the preliminary study.

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.