The works covered 505 square meters and included cobblestone sidewalks, accessibility ramps, lighting, planters and trees
SANTO DOMINGO.- The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) reported that it invested RD$25,580,511 in the reconstruction of sidewalks and the renovation of the surroundings of the Basilica of Our Lady of La Altagracia, in Higüey, La Altagracia province, as part of the interventions aimed at improving public spaces linked to religious tourism.
The project, inaugurated yesterday Thursday by the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, covered 505 square meters, distributed in 259 linear meters of north sidewalk and 246 linear meters of south sidewalk, according to data provided by the institution.
The work included the reconstruction of cobblestone sidewalks and curbs, as well as the improvement of the pedestrian crossing at the front entrance of the basilica.
They also included concrete paving, construction of planters, urban tree planting, installation of streetlights and road posts, as well as ramps to facilitate access for people with reduced mobility.
Collado highlights impact
During the inauguration ceremony, Collado pointed out that the work aims to improve the conditions of the temple's surroundings, considered one of the country's main religious pilgrimage sites.
“These works of order and beautification in the surroundings of our basilica will be reflected in a greater number of parishioners visiting the religious space,” the official said.
Mitur reports investments exceeding RD$1,646 million in La Altagracia
Furthermore, the minister highlighted the road and infrastructure projects carried out during his administration in the province of La Altagracia, whose investment exceeds RD$1,646 million, according to figures provided by Mitur.
Among the initiatives mentioned were the Pilgrimage Boulevard, the streets surrounding the basilica, the Women's Park, and the Verón Boulevard. He also cited the reconstruction of the access road to Macao Beach and the roadwork carried out in Bayahíbe.
Basilica of Higüey: history of one of the main Dominican sanctuaries
The temple was inaugurated on January 21, 1971, after 17 years of construction, and every year it receives thousands of pilgrims who venerate the Virgin of Altagracia.
The Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of Altagracia, located in Higüey, La Altagracia province, is one of the main Catholic shrines in the Dominican Republic. Its history is closely linked to the devotion to Our Lady of Altagracia, considered the spiritual protector of the Dominican people.
Over the centuries, this veneration, whose origins date back to the colonial era, turned Higüey into an important religious destination, especially every January 21, the date on which thousands of faithful come to celebrate the Day of Our Lady of Altagracia.
Construction and inauguration of the basilica
Construction of the current temple began in 1954 and was overseen by the French architects André-Jacques Dunoyer de Segonzac and Pierre Dupré. After 17 years of work, the complex was inaugurated on January 21, 1971, during the government of Joaquín Balaguer, replacing the old sanctuary of Higüey as the main space for Marian veneration.
That same year, the building was declared a National Monument and received the title of minor basilica, granted by Pope Paul VI, according to historical references about the sanctuary.
Architecture and religious significance
Architecturally, the structure is distinguished by its modern design and its large arch, elements that give it a unique appearance within the urban landscape of Higüey.
In addition to its function as a place of worship, the sanctuary serves as a meeting point for pilgrims from different parts of the country. Its religious significance was further underscored in 1992, when Pope John Paul II visited the temple and crowned the image of Our Lady of Altagracia during his stay in the Dominican Republic.
In this way, the basilica has established itself as a benchmark of the Dominican Catholic faith and as one of the main places of pilgrimage in the country, with an activity that takes on special relevance during the celebrations of January 21.
Recommended readings:
