Overview:

Monserrate Sanctuary is a historic church located on Monserrate Hill in central Bogota, Colombia. The original church was built in the 17th century as a pilgrimage site. The present structure dates to the 18th century and is dedicated to El Senor Caido (the Fallen Lord). It is a popular tourist destination offering stunning views of the city below. Inside the church is an image of the Fallen Lord and the chapel is famous for its silver altar. There is also a museum with artifacts from the Franciscan monastery and a souvenir shop. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Colombia
Prominent Features:

1. Entrance to Monserrate Sanctuary: The iconic entrance to the Monserrate Sanctuary stands tall atop of Monserrate Hill in Bogota. The entrance includes two heraldic symbols that represent, respectively, the old and new confessions of Colombia. 2.Main Church: At the center of the sanctuary is the beautiful main church, built in 17th century in the Baroque style. It is full of colourful and golden decorations, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Bogota. 3.Fountain of San Pablo: One of the oldest parts of the sanctuary is the Fountain of San Pablo, first built in 1640. The fountain was destroyed during wars, but was rebuilt with materials from the original fountain. Visitors can learn about the history of the fountain and the sanctuary here. 4.Elevator and Viewpoints: To reach the top of the mountain, visitors can take the popular funicular or the glass elevator, which offers spectacular views of the city and its surroundings. There are also stone steps with handrails, for those who would like to climb the hill. 5.Restaurants and Shops: There are several restaurants and shops at the top of the hill, where visitors can find souvenirs, snacks and hot drinks. On special occasions, visitors can also find traditional Colombian food. 6.Statue of Jesus Christ: A large statue of Jesus Christ stands at the peak of the hill, symbolizing faith and protection. The statue also represents the history of Catholicism in Colombia. This national monument of Colombia portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Monserrate Sanctuary, located in Bogotá, Colombia, is a popular Catholic pilgrimage site in the Andes Mountains. The sanctuary dates back to 1656, when the first wooden cross was erected at the peak of the mountain. Believers flocked to this site to pay homage to a vision of a mysterious figure seated atop a white cloud, which was in fact the Virgen de Monserrate or Our Lady of Monserrate. In 1657, the first chapel was built at the peak to serve as a place of worship and veneration. This chapel was replaced by a larger shrine in 1754. The existing structure, made of stone and mud mortar, was constructed in 18, under the direction of the Archbishop of Bogotá. It was consecrated in 1825. The Monserrate Sanctuary currently includes the shrine, a basilica, a bridge, and a number of concessions and services, including a hotel, cafeteria, and cable car station. The Sanctuary also offers hiking trails, a souvenir shop, and a post-office. Pilgrimages and other religious services are held year-round, and Monserrate Sanctuary attracts millions of visitors each year. You must visit one of these historical places in Colombia on your Colombia tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Monserrate Sanctuary was originally a chapel that was built in 1657 as a spiritual retreat from the city of Bogotá. 2. The name Monserrate comes from Monserrat, a 12th century mountain in Catalonia, Spain where a basilica honoring the Virgin Mary is located. 3. From the 1880s onwards, the Sanctuary began to become a destination for religious pilgrims seeking spiritual healing that would then spread by word-of-mouth, making it a popular religious attraction in Bogotá. 4. The most noteworthy symbol of the Sanctuary is its tall statue of Jesus Christ, made of bronze, and towering above the city at a height of 18 meters. 5. The Sanctuary is surrounded by a 500 hectares of green gardens and forests, known as a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. 6. The Monserrate Sanctuary is also home to the oldest botanical garden in Colombia, one of the oldest in the Americas. 7. Every year, thousands of devotees and visitors climb the 600 steps of the Santuario de Monserrate to reach the summit and pay their respects to the Virgin Mary. Visit one of the famous monuments of Colombia with your friends and family.