Basilica of El Cisne, Minor basilica and national shrine in Loja Province, Ecuador.
The Basilica of El Cisne is a Gothic-style church located at 2,440 meters elevation in the mountains, marked by tall spires and intricate wood carvings throughout. Inside, multiple chapels create dedicated spaces for prayer and worship, all built with careful architectural detail.
Construction of this shrine began in the early 1900s when local residents sought a place of worship modeled after other religious sanctuaries in Latin America. The project was completed to serve the growing number of pilgrims seeking spiritual connection in the mountains.
The cedar wood statue of the Virgin Mary serves as the spiritual center of this place and draws believers from across the region to pray and seek blessings. This image represents a living religious tradition that continues to shape how locals and visitors experience faith here.
Religious services happen throughout the week, and visitors can take time to explore the chapels and admire the carved details. The site is best visited during daylight hours when natural light illuminates the interior details.
The wood statue was carved by a local artist in 1594, making it one of the oldest religious artworks in the region. Each year this figure is carried on foot down the mountain through a large procession to the nearby city below.
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