Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Santa Cruz, Bolivia
1. San Francisco Javier Mission
Historic Jesuit mission built in the 1600s, showcasing a blend of Guarani and European architectural styles.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest buildings in Santa Cruz
- Architectural Style: Unique mix of Guarani and European architecture
- Cultural Exchange: Exemplifies the cultural exchange between indigenous Guarani people and European colonizers
2. San Matías National Shrine
A popular pilgrimage site for Catholics, known for its beautiful statue of Saint Matthew.
- Religious Importance: Significant religious site for Catholic pilgrims
- Artistic Value: Beautiful statue of Saint Matthew attracting attention
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Santa Cruz
3. Nuestra Señora de Socorro Church
Iconic church built in the early 1800s, known for its vibrant blue and white facade.
- Historic Value: One of the oldest churches in Santa Cruz
- Distinctive Architecture: Standout blue and white facade making it unique
- Cultural Landmark: Important symbol of Santa Cruz's cultural heritage
4. Virgen de Cotoca Sanctuary
A unique sanctuary housing one of the world's largest collection of silver-plated ceramic statues.
- Cultural Richness: Home to an impressive collection of silver-plated ceramics
- Tourist Attraction: Popular destination for both locals and international tourists
- Historical Significance: Celebrates indigenous artistry and craftsmanship
5. San Miguel de Velasco Church
One of the oldest churches in Santa Cruz, showcasing beautiful Baroque architecture.
- Historic Significance: One of the oldest surviving buildings in Santa Cruz
- Architectural Style: Impressive Baroque architecture not commonly found in the region
- Cultural Landmark: Symbol of Santa Cruz's rich cultural heritage
6. La Merced Church
Beautiful church with intricate gold-leafed altar and ornate baroque architecture.
- Religious Importance: A significant religious site for Catholics in Santa Cruz
- Artistic Value: Gold-leafed altar and ornate baroque architecture are stunning sights to behold
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 1800s, a testament to Santa Cruz's history
7. San Rafael del Sur Sanctuary
Beautiful sanctuary located in the lush countryside of Santa Cruz.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by stunning natural beauty of the Santa Cruz countryside
- Religious Importance: Significant religious site for Catholic pilgrims
- Tranquil Retreat: Offers a peaceful and serene escape from the bustling city
8. San Joaquín Church
Baroque-style church with an impressive dome, located in the heart of Santa Cruz.
- Architectural Style: Impressive Baroque architecture and domed structure
- Cultural Landmark: Important symbol of Santa Cruz's cultural heritage
- Religious Importance: A significant religious site for Catholics in Santa Cruz
9. San Pablo Church
Charming church with an exquisite altar and beautiful murals depicting biblical scenes.
- Artistic Value: Exquisite altar and beautiful murals are masterpieces of religious art
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 1900s, a testament to Santa Cruz's history
- Cultural Landmark: Symbol of Santa Cruz's rich cultural heritage
10. San Pedro Church
Historic church with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate wooden carvings.
- Artistic Value: Stained glass windows and wooden carvings are artistic treasures
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest churches in Santa Cruz
- Cultural Landmark: Symbol of Santa Cruz's rich cultural heritage
11. San Ignacio de Moxos Church
A stunningly beautiful church located in the Amazonian region of Santa Cruz.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the lush beauty of the Amazon rainforest
- Religious Importance: Significant religious site for Catholic pilgrims in the Amazon region
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 1700s, a testament to Santa Cruz's history
12. San Carlos Church
Baroque-style church with intricate designs and beautiful bell towers.
- Architectural Style: Impressive Baroque architecture and beautiful bell towers
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 1800s, a testament to Santa Cruz's history
- Cultural Landmark: Symbol of Santa Cruz's rich cultural heritage
13. San Buenaventura Church
Beautiful church with stunning stained glass windows and an impressive bell tower.
- Artistic Value: Stunning stained glass windows and impressive bell tower make it a visual treat
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 1900s, a testament to Santa Cruz's history
- Cultural Landmark: Symbol of Santa Cruz's rich cultural heritage
14. San Ambrosio Church
Baroque-style church with a beautiful façade and intricate designs.
- Architectural Style: Impressive Baroque architecture and beautiful facade
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 1800s, a testament to Santa Cruz's history
- Cultural Landmark: Symbol of Santa Cruz's rich cultural heritage
15. San Lorenzo Church
Stunning church with a beautiful altar and ornate wood carvings.
- Artistic Value: Beautiful altar and ornate wood carvings make it an artistic marvel
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 1900s, a testament to Santa Cruz's history
- Cultural Landmark: Symbol of Santa Cruz's rich cultural heritage