Basílica de la Virgen de la Encina de Ponferrada

The Basilica de la Virgen de la Encina is a Renaissance-style church in Ponferrada with a Latin cross layout and a hexagonal choir section. Inside, visitors see a polychrome wooden altarpiece carved and painted in the 1600s.

Construction began in 1573 following designs by Juan Alvear, establishing the basic structure of the building. The tower was added later, starting in 1614 and extending through the 1600s.

The basilica holds the statue of Our Lady of La Encina, called La Morenica, who became the patron saint of the El Bierzo region. People still come here to pray and participate in devotions tied to this figure.

The basilica is typically open daily, with visiting hours in the morning and afternoon. Note that masses and religious services may limit access to certain areas at specific times.

According to tradition, templars discovered a hidden statue of the Virgin Mary within an oak grove while gathering firewood. This founding story shaped the sanctuary's name and its importance to the surrounding area.