Overview:

Catedral Nuestra Señora de Regla, Baní is an important place of worship in the Dominican Republic. This 17th century church, built on the site of a former Taíno temple, stands proudly in the small town of Baní, and pays homage to the rich history of the region. The cathedral is best known for housing a wooden replica of the Virgin of Regla, a patroness of Cuba. A miracle occurred at this temple when Our Lady of Regla appeared in an apparition in an image of the Virgin. To this day, the religious pilgrims come to the cathedral to pay homage to the Virgin. Over time, the temple has been refurbished and restored to preserve its beauty and significance. Today, the temple features stunning Baroque architectural elements, an impressive pulpit, numerous altars, a vibrant decor, and a stunning painting of the Virgin Mary. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Dominican-Republic
Prominent Features:

The Catedral Nuestra Señora de Regla, Baní in the Dominican-Republic is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Dominican-Republic. It is also known as the Protectress Church and was built in 1836 by the Mercedarian Fathers. The building itself is an impressive masonry structure covered with stucco and decorated with beautiful hand-painted tiles that feature various religious figures and symbols. The entrance is a Romanesque-style portico framed by two towers, and the interior features several altars. It is the city’s major Roman Catholic church and one of the most popular places of worship in the country. This national monument of Dominican-Republic portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Catedral Nuestra Señora de Regla is located in Baní, Dominican Republic, and has been the main Catholic shrine in the city since the mid-17th century. The first church, built from mud and palm roofs, was originally constructed by the Spanish in 1631. The original structure was destroyed in 1786 by the forces of Haitian general Andre Dessalines, liberating Baní and the surrounding area from Haitian rule. A new shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Regla was built in 1802, and was later remodeled in 1830. This structure has remained largely unchanged since its construction. The church houses the relics of numerous Catholic saints, including Saint Geronimo and Saint Diego. A renovation project was initiated in 2012, which included repainting of the walls, a new roof, and a new bell tower. The project was completed in 2019. The church is now an important recognition of Dominican identity in the town of Baní and serves as a place of worship for the city's Catholic population. You must visit one of these historical places in Dominican-Republic on your Dominican-Republic tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Catedral Nuestra Señora de Regla in Baní is one of the most important religious sites in the Dominican Republic and a major tourist attraction. 2. The cathedral was built in the 17th century and is the oldest in the republic. 3. It is known for its baroque façade and bell tower, as well as its ornate interior decorations of gold and stucco. 4. The cathedral is home to the “Virgen de los Milagros” (Virgin of Miracles), a precious 16th century wooden sculpture. 5. The Cathedral also contains a tall statue, which was believed to be the tallest statue in the Americas during colonial times. 6. It is said to house the mortal remains of Fray Antonio Montesinos, who was a Dominican friar and the first to preach against slavery in the Americas in 1511. 7. Every year on Christmas Eve, a massive pilgrimage takes place to the cathedral, where worshippers and believers come to witness the “Misa de Aguinaldo” (Christmas Night Mass). 8. The cathedral is the destination for the annual “Camino del Santo Calvario” (Way of the Holy Calvary), a traditional pilgrimage which takes place during Easter. Visit one of the famous monuments of Dominican-Republic with your friends and family.