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Church · Higüey, La Altagracia
Basílica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia
A modern concrete basilica, built between 1954 and 1971, with an arch of about 80 meters, which houses the image of the country's patron saint and receives pilgrims year-round.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Basílica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia
The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia is the main Catholic sanctuary in the Dominican Republic. It was built between 1954 and 1971 in a project by French architects to replace the small colonial church where the image of the Virgin had been venerated since the 16th century. The building is made of concrete, with modern lines and a large arch on the façade that reaches about 80 meters in height.
Inside, the space is wide and bright, with colorful stained glass, wooden pews and the altar where the small painting of the Virgin of Altagracia is displayed, framed in gold and silver. The image is the country's patron saint and, according to tradition, arrived on the island in the early colonial period. Worshippers pass in a line before it, leave petitions and light candles.
On January 21, the day of the Altagracia and a national holiday, Higüey receives pilgrims from across the country, many on foot, for masses and processions that fill the basilica and the surrounding streets. The sanctuary has been visited by popes, and the area around it has stores selling religious items and a large square.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour.
Best time
In the morning on a weekday, when the basilica is calmer. On January 21 the experience is different: lots of people, music and faith, with little room to move.
How to get there
It is located in the center of Higüey, about 45 km from Bávaro and Punta Cana airport. Buses coming from Bávaro and Santo Domingo stop near the center, a few blocks away.
Tip
Go with shoulders and knees covered. Respect masses and the line of worshippers before the image; photos without flash are usually allowed outside moments of celebration.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basílica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia
Who is Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia?
The patron Virgin of the Dominican Republic, venerated in a small 16th-century painting kept in the basilica.
When was the Basilica of Higüey built?
Between 1954 and 1971, to replace the colonial church where the image was kept.
Are there dress rules to enter the basilica?
Yes. Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.