The Basilica of Our Lady of Consolation, also known as the Basilica of Táriba, is located in Táriba, Táchira State, Venezuela. This church plays a significant role in the region’s religious life. On October 20, 1959, the Vatican granted it the title of Minor Basilica through the Pontifical decree Solacium ac Levationem. A month later, on November 9, 1959, Pope John XXIII gave the Pontifical decree of coronation to the image of Our Lady of Consolation.
The coronation ceremony took place on March 12, 1967. Cardinal José Humberto Quintero Parra, Archbishop of Caracas, led the event. It marked a historic moment for both the basilica and the local community. The basilica’s history began on August 19, 1690, when Father Francisco Martínez de Espinoza started building the first temple dedicated to the Virgin of Táriba. Although the original church was replaced, it laid the foundation for the basilica we see today.
The church honors Our Lady of Consolation, the patron saint of Táchira State. In the early 1900s, Monsignor Miguel Ignacio Briceño Picón and Monsignor Alejandro Fernández Feo worked to elevate the church’s importance. Between 1904 and 1913, their efforts helped gain recognition for the basilica. Under Monsignor Alejandro Figueroa Medina’s leadership, the basilica underwent major renovations. These were in preparation for the canonical coronation of the Virgin.
During the 1960s, Martín Marciales Moncada contributed to a major rebuild of the basilica. His efforts played a key role in preserving the church’s historical legacy. Today, the basilica continues to serve as a vital place of worship and an important cultural landmark in Táchira State.
Basilica of Our Lady of Consolation RQ9F+59M, Carrera 5, Táriba 5017, Táchira, Venezuela
How to Reach
Basilica of Our Lady of Consolation, Táriba, Venezuela
Airways
The nearest airports to the Basilica of Our Lady of Consolation are La Fría International Airport (approximately 17 km) and Santiago de Los Caballeros Airport (about 160 km). Both airports offer excellent connections to major cities within Venezuela and internationally.
Railways
The Táriba Railway Station is located about 5 km from the Basilica. It offers access to national train routes and is a convenient option for visitors traveling by rail.
Roadways
The Basilica of Our Lady of Consolation is easily accessible by road, with several nearby bus stations providing convenient access. It is located 2.5 km from the Táriba Bus Terminal, 20 km from the San Cristóbal Bus Terminal, and 18 km from the La Fría Bus Station. Traveling by road offers a simple and efficient way to reach the basilica from various nearby locations.