Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, La Ceja, Colombia
The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in La Ceja, Antioquia, Colombia, honors the Virgin Mary under her title of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. It is part of the Diocese of Sonsón-Rionegro and stands on the north corner of the western side of the main square, making it a central landmark. Devotees visit regularly to attend Mass and take part in local religious festivals.
The first church on this site was built in 1815 by Benjamín Ortiz. As the congregation grew, the building became too small. To address this, engineers planned a new structure in the early 20th century. Heliodoro Ochoa Escobar designed it in the neoclassical style, giving the church balanced proportions and an elegant appearance.
In 1938, an earthquake destroyed the façade, but the interior remained intact. This allowed the church to continue serving the community without interruption. Later, Spanish engineer Juan Ernesto Ormaechea redesigned the façade in the neo-Gothic style, adding tall towers and intricate decorative details that attract visitors even today.
The basilica also houses the remains of Alfonso Uribe Jaramillo, which adds historical and spiritual importance. Over the years, the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel has combined faith, resilience, and architectural beauty. Today, it continues to serve as a place of worship, community gatherings, and cultural heritage, reflecting Colombia’s rich religious traditions.
Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, La Ceja, Colombia
Airways
The nearest airport to the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is José María Córdova International Airport in Rionegro, located approximately 32 kilometers from La Ceja. Another option is Olaya Herrera Airport in Medellín, about 48 kilometers away. Both airports provide domestic flights to major Colombian cities.
Railways
La Ceja does not have a local railway station. The nearest major railway facilities operate in Medellín, which travelers can reach by road in roughly one to two hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Roadways
The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is situated in the center of La Ceja, easily accessible by car or intercity bus. It lies approximately 48 kilometers from Medellín’s North Bus Terminal and about 32 kilometers from Rionegro’s bus station, with frequent bus services connecting these locations.
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