Ipiales, Colombia
The Basilica of Las Lajas is like a fairytale castle built in a river canyon. The first impression does not deceive: behind the neo-Gothic turrets, high windows and pointed arches, a wonderful story is hidden. In the middle of the 18th century, the Indian woman Maria Mueses, as usual, returned home from the village of Ipiales with her deaf and dumb daughter, Rose. On the way, they were caught by bad weather – they had to hide in a cave, about which they said that it was inhabited by spirits. Imagine the surprise and happiness of Mary when her daughter clearly shouted that she saw a woman with a baby in her arms. Thus, the miraculous face of the Mother of God was discovered, to which pilgrims reached out in the hope of getting rid of ailments.
The modern cathedral on this site was built for 33 years and finished in 1949. The altar was placed so that the face of the Virgin Mary was on it. And on the way to the temple, a whole wall appeared with thanks from the healed pilgrims.
