Basilica of Our Lady of the Way, The Virgin of the Camino,Spain
The Minor Basilica and Royal Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Camino is located in La Virgen del Camino, a town in Valverde de la Virgen, León, Spain. It honors the Virgin of the Camino, patroness of both the León region and Pamplona. The basilica lies directly on the Camino de Santiago, which gives it both spiritual and historical significance.
The current church replaced an earlier sanctuary that had become too small. It was designed by Friar Francisco Coello de Portugal and built between 1957 and 1961. Unlike traditional churches in the region, it features a bold modern design. The Dominican Order, who administers the site, supported this architectural direction.
Pablo Díez, a León-born businessman and founder of Grupo Modelo in Mexico, provided major funding. Thanks to his contribution, the project moved forward with quality and purpose. His support created a lasting connection between León and Latin America.
In addition, the sanctuary has earned wider recognition over time. In 2015, UNESCO expanded the Camino de Santiago World Heritage Site. Spain submitted documentation titled “Retrospective Inventory – Associated Components.” The sanctuary appeared on that list as item number 1683.
Today, the basilica continues to attract pilgrims and visitors from across the world. Many come for prayer, while others visit for its striking art and architecture. Its location, just outside the city of León, makes it easy to reach and popular with travelers.
Overall, the Basilica of the Virgin of the Camino represents faith, history, and modern artistic vision. Because of its spiritual role and cultural value, it remains one of the most important pilgrimage stops in northern Spain.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Way, The Virgin of the Camino, Spain
Airways
Travelers can reach the basilica by flying into León Airport, which is the closest airport at a distance of approximately 7 kilometers. This airport offers regular domestic flights, primarily connecting with Madrid. For more flight options, Valladolid Airport, located around 135 kilometers away, serves as an alternative with additional national and some international routes.
Railways
The nearest railway facility is León Railway Station, situated about 8 kilometers from the basilica. León is a key stop on Spain’s high-speed AVE network and is well connected to major cities such as Madrid, Valladolid, and Oviedo, providing fast and reliable access for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Roadways
By road, the basilica is located along the N-120 highway and is just 8 kilometers from the center of León. It is approximately 130 kilometers from Valladolid and around 330 kilometers from Madrid. Regular bus services operate between León and La Virgen del Camino, and visitors can also use taxis or rental cars for convenient and direct access to the site.
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