Las Lajas Sanctuary, Gothic Revival church in Ipiales, Colombia
Las Lajas Sanctuary is a basilica in grey and white stone that spans a canyon at 2,600 meters altitude, joined to both sides of the gorge by a 50-meter bridge. The building rises directly from the cliff face, anchored into the rock walls of the canyon.
Construction began in January 1916 and lasted until August 1949, replacing a smaller church from the previous century. The site marks the spot where a mute girl is said to have regained her ability to speak.
Thousands of ceramic plaques cover the interior walls, each one expressing thanks for answered prayers and healing. Pilgrims from across South America continue this tradition, adding new tablets year after year.
A shared taxi from the bus terminal in Ipiales takes around fifteen minutes and drops visitors near the entrance. Alternatively, a cable car system operates from the town to the site.
The basilica stands on foundations carved directly from the bare rock of the canyon walls. Its location was chosen to honor the spot where a mute woman reportedly recovered her voice.
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