Basilica National Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary, Las Lajas, Colombia Verified listing

Basilica National Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary, Las Lajas, Colombia

The Sanctuary of Las Lajas, officially the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Las Lajas, stands deep within the canyon of the Guáitara River in Ipiales, Nariño, Colombia. It honors the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of the Rosary. Therefore, it serves as both a sacred pilgrimage site and an architectural marvel. Thousands of believers and tourists visit every year to admire its beauty and express their devotion.

Many pilgrims believe the colorful image of the Madonna and Child on the rock wall appeared miraculously. They claim no artist created it and that the image formed through divine intervention. This story strengthens the faith of visitors who come seeking blessings and spiritual renewal.

Architects designed the current church in a neo-Gothic style and began construction in 1916. Builders completed it in 1949 after decades of careful work. Its name, “Lajas,” comes from the Spanish word for “flagstone,” which refers to the flat rocks found in the area. Moreover, the church’s pointed arches, stained-glass windows, and tall towers rise gracefully above the canyon. A stone bridge connects the two sides, offering one of the most stunning views in South America.

Pope Pius XII recognized the site’s importance when he crowned the miraculous image as Sancta Virgo de Rupe, or “Holy Virgin of the Rock,” on May 31, 1951. Later, he granted the church the title of Minor Basilica on August 30, 1954. Furthermore, Pope Paul VI declared the Virgin of the Holy Rosary the Patroness of Ipiales on April 26, 1965.

Today, the Sanctuary of Las Lajas continues to welcome pilgrims from Colombia and Ecuador. It represents faith, resilience, and devotion while uniting communities through prayer and shared spiritual tradition.

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