Peñafrancia Church, Baroque Catholic shrine in Naga, Philippines
Peñafrancia Church is a baroque shrine in Naga featuring elaborately carved exterior walls that depict scenes from the Virgin Mary's life. The stone structure displays architectural elements from different periods and stands as a prominent landmark in the city.
Construction of the original shrine began in 1741 under Bishop Ysidro de Arevalo, replacing an earlier structure made of nipa and bamboo. This transition marked an important development in the city's architectural and spiritual history.
The shrine serves as a focal point for a major September procession when thousands of devotees participate in a multi-day celebration honoring the Virgin Mary. This event shapes the city's religious calendar and demonstrates how deeply rooted this place is in local spiritual life.
The shrine is easily accessible by foot or local transport as it is centrally located in Naga. Visitors should be aware that large crowds gather during the September procession, making earlier arrival times helpful for a quieter experience.
The shrine houses the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, locally called Ina, which Miguel Robles brought from Spain after his recovery. This statue remains central to pilgrims' visits and is associated with personal healing intentions.
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