Overview:

Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, also known as La Basilica Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, is a basilica located in the city of Higüey in the La Altagracia Province of the Dominican Republic. Built over 500 years ago and consecrated in 1572, it is the largest sanctuary in the Caribbean and is considered to be the most important religious site in the country. Surrounding the basilica is a small plaza, altar and a museum showcasing religious artifacts. Every year, thousands of people come to pay homage to the patron saint of the Dominican Republic, the Virgin of La Altagracia, and receive blessings from the cardinal of the country. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

• Situated close to the city of Higüey, this stunning basilica was built by the local population to honor their patron saint, the Virgen de la Altagracia. • It is the oldest and largest Catholic Church in the Dominican Republic. The church is considered as a national landmark and is renowned for its stunning architecture. • This magnificent church is renowned for its majestic nave, which is adorned with numerous frescoes, frescoes depicting classic scenes from the biblical accounts of the Virgin Mary. • The church has become a popular tourist destination and Hosts several events such as the yearly celebration of the Feast of Altagracia, a festival of music and dance. • The Basilica has also been known to host majestic concerts and other amazing events like the Noche de los Lirios or Night of Lilies which is held annually in the month of October. • The Basilica is also home to some of the best works of art in the Dominican Reublic like paintings, sculptures, and other artwork. • Tourists are often invited to tour the Basilica for free and it also offers various other services such as baptisms, blessings and weddings. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, also called Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, is located in Higüey, Dominican Republic. The basilica is a popular pilgrimage destination and is the most well-known church in the Dominican Republic. It is also the oldest church in the country. The current basilica was built in 1971 to replace the original church, which was built in 1572. The original church was destroyed in an earthquake in 1918. The current building was dedicated on August 15, 1971 as a shrine to Our Lady of Altagracia, the patroness of the Dominican Republic. It is a modern church, designed in a Romanesque style, with a bell tower and cruciform plan. The interior of the basilica is intricately painted in blues and whites, with a large 30-meter fresco depicting the Virgin of Altagracia. It is decorated with numerous paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts related to the Virgin of Altagracia. The basilica also houses the famous 16th century painting of the Virgin of Altagracia. The Virgin of Altagracia is believed to perform miracles and is considered by many to be the spiritual protector of the nation. People travel from all over the Caribbean and Latin America to visit the basilica and pay homage to Our Lady of Altagracia. In addition to serving as a place of worship, the basilica is also an important site for cultural events, such as concerts, plays, and other special events. In 2012, the basilica was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This designation protects the basilica and its cultural heritage, and ensures that it will be preserved for future generations. Today, the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia continues to draw thousands of visitors each year. It is a beautiful and historic church, and a place where people can come to experience the power of faith and devotion. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. Construction of the Basilica began in 1952 and finished in 1954. It was built on the ruins of a 16th century church. 2. The Basilica is officially dedicated to Our Lady of Altagracia, a beloved religious figure in the Dominican Republic. 3. The Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia is the most important religious center in the country and the second most visited sanctuary in the world after Lourdes. 4. It attracts up to 2 million visitors annually in honor of the Patron Saint of the Dominican Republic. 5. Inside the Basilica, visitors can find a venerated image of Our Lady of Altagracia, also known as “La Virgencita de la Altagracia”. 6. The Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia was officially declared Minor Basilica on October 21, 1952. 7. Every year, thousands of visitors visit the basilica to take part in the famous Pilgrimage. 8. On the 13th of January, a festival is held in honor of Our Lady of Altagracia. During the festival, the streets of Higüey are adorned with decorations, and the church fills with colorful balloons, decorations and music. 9. The highlight of the festival is the traditional “romeria” where pictures of Our Lady of Altagracia are carried around the Basilica and taken on a procession to the shrine. 10. The Pilgrimage of Our Lady of Altagracia is celebrated every year on the 18th of January, when thousands of Catholics from all over the country come in a show of religious devotion to pray and make offerings to Our Lady. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.