The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Itacua, located 14 km from the center of Encarnación, Paraguay, and one of Paraguay's main pilgrimage sites, is embarking on a comprehensive improvement project to enrich the spiritual, natural, and cultural experience it offers. This plan, announced on June 5, 2025, aims to enhance infrastructure, security, accessibility, and services to benefit the numerous devotees and visitors who come here annually.
Key Improvements and Background
The main components of this project are:
Installation of Modern HVAC Systems: A state-of-the-art HVAC system with a capacity of 360,000 BTUs will be installed to provide a more comfortable environment inside the chapel for visitors.
Establishment of an LED Lighting Network: 135 low-power LED lights will be installed along the walkways leading to the grotto, creating a safe and beautiful environment even at night.
Comprehensive Information System: Accessibility-friendly signage and interactive maps utilizing QR codes will be installed to enhance visitor convenience.
Construction and Renovation of Tourist Stops: New tourist stops will be built to replace damaged ones, and the existing 11 circular stops will also undergo maintenance.
Restroom Facility Improvements: Restroom facilities will be completely renovated to improve hygiene and convenience.
These improvements were personally announced by Angie Duarte, Minister of the National Secretariat of Tourism (SENATUR) of Paraguay, reaffirming the institution's strong commitment to the development of regional religious tourism. Minister Duarte stated, "We will work closely to improve the pilgrimage routes in the Itapúa region, as well as the air conditioning system of the chapel." She emphasized that this initiative is part of ongoing investment efforts and represents the first achievement for 2025. SENATUR operates a regional office in Encarnación and plans to continuously enhance the visitor experience, especially as the World Rally Championship is scheduled to be held there for the next three years.
Regional Development and Infrastructure Investment
Minister Duarte highlighted the importance of the infrastructure to be installed in the Itapúa region, which is clearly demonstrated by efforts to modernize the airport. An investment of 10 million dollars (approximately 13.7 billion Korean Won) is planned to transform Encarnación Airport into an international airport, which is expected to significantly contribute to strengthening regional connectivity.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Itacua is situated in a natural environment along the Paraná River, encompassing 3 hectares with 9 km of internal roads and boasting over a century of history. This project, led by SENATUR, is designed with a sustainable approach that re-evaluates cultural and natural heritage.
History and Significance of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Itacua
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Itacua developed into a pilgrimage site after the discovery of a statue of Our Lady of Itacua in the Paraná River in the late 19th century. Local residents at the time discovered the statue floating in the river and considered it a miracle. Subsequently, belief in the apparition spread, and the place became a site of spiritual significance. A small chapel was built in the early 1900s, and as the number of pilgrims increased, it gradually expanded to its current chapel and surrounding facilities.
Beyond being a mere religious facility, it is known as a place that offers tranquility and inspiration to visitors, harmonizing with the beautiful natural scenery of the Paraná River. Annually, numerous domestic and international pilgrims visit to pray, enjoy the surrounding scenery, and relax. Especially on December 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, tens of thousands of pilgrims gather for a large-scale event.
Local Economic Revitalization and Sustainable Tourism
The comprehensive improvement project for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Itacua is expected to contribute significantly not only to facility modernization but also to local economic revitalization and sustainable tourism development.
Increased Tourist Attraction: Improved infrastructure and services will enhance visitor satisfaction and attract more tourists, contributing to the revitalization of local commerce.
Job Creation: New jobs will be created during the construction and operation phases, positively impacting the income of local residents.
Enhanced Regional Image: With international-level tourism infrastructure, the international standing of Encarnación and the Itapúa region is expected to rise.
Environmental Preservation and Sustainability: The fact that the project is designed with a sustainable approach can serve as a model for promoting tourism activities while protecting the natural environment. This will long-term preserve the ecological value of the region and provide a basis for future generations to inherit this beautiful nature.
SENATUR hopes that this project will make the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Itacua a representative religious tourism destination in Paraguay and a successful example of a sustainable development model. In conjunction with the modernization of the Encarnación airport, this region is expected to become an even more attractive destination for pilgrims and tourists not only in South America but also worldwide. These efforts represent a significant step for Paraguay to secure competitiveness in the religious tourism sector, preserve cultural and natural heritage, and provide tangible benefits to the local community.
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