Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia / Higuey Basilica (The Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia)

The Basilica profile as seen from one of the two archway spanning from the main entrance and surrounding the plaza.

The head-on shot disguises the depth and complexity of the design.

The Basilica as seen from just inside the gate.

The Basilica is at the end of a private road surrounded by palm tress planted symmetrically.

The uniquely constructed and shaped bell tower has 45 bronze bells ranging in size.

The Basilica has a bell tower composed by 45 bronze bells.

The uniquely constructed and shaped bell tower has 45 bronze bells ranging in size.

The uniquely constructed and shaped bell tower has 45 bronze bells ranging in size.

The entry is bronze coated with 24k gold and blessed in Rome.

Two of the stained glass windows are uniquely shaped, one in blues/purple shades and the other by the altar in shades of orange, gold and brown.

"Pope John Paul II visited the Dominican Republic on January 25, 1979, and ofered a diadem (type of crown) to the virgin of AltaGracia. On Oct 12, 1984 started the ecclesiastical celebration of the 5th centenary (500th) anniversary of the Discovery of America. He also proclaimed the "Marian Year" June 7, 1987 to Aug 15, 1988. "

"Pope John Paul II visited the Dominican Republic on January 25, 1979, and ofered a diadem (type of crown) to the virgin of AltaGracia. On Oct 12, 1984 started the ecclesiastical celebration of the 5th centenary (500th) anniversary of the Discovery of America. He also proclaimed the "Marian Year" June 7, 1987 to Aug 15, 1988. "

The interior of the Basilica is just as impressive as the outside

Inside La Basilica you’ll find the spectacular image of the Virgin that is 45cm tall and 33,5cm wide; the painting was made in the 15th century by a Spanish painter. The frame that holds the image of La Virgen de la Altagracia is made of gold and precious stones; it was created in the 18th century.

The entry is bronze coated with 24k gold and blessed in Rome.

The entry is bronze coated with 24k gold and blessed in Rome.

The entry is made of bronze with a 24 carat gold bath and was blessed in Rome by Pope John Paul II

The entry is bronze coated with 24k gold and blessed in Rome.

The view from inside the church looking out of the main entrance.

The entry is made of bronze with a 24 carat gold bath and was blessed in Rome by the Pope John Paul II The entry is bronze coated with 24k gold and blessed in Rome.

The entry is bronze coated with 24k gold and blessed in Rome.

The uniquely constructed and shaped bell tower has 45 bronze bells ranging in size.