Nuestra Señora de Las Nieves Sanctuary

Centuries of religious fervour

Located in the municipality of Santa Cruz de La Palma, this sanctuary is one of the main places of worship on an island with centuries of tradition and religious fervour. This icon of the virgin originates from the arrival of the first evangelizers after the island’s conquest in 1493. The sanctuary adheres to the construction model for La Palma hermitages: the main chapel is higher and features a half-barrel vault, separated by a level transverse arch.

The Light Festival Sanctuary

This is one of the main locations of the Santa Cruz de La Palma Lights Festival, a National Interest Tourism Festival. During the show the icon of the Virgen de Las Nieves is transported from her sanctuary in the mountains to the city down on the coast. Dating back to the seventeenth century, the faithful believed that the Virgen de las Nieves would intercede in different misfortunes which took place on the island of La Palma.

Santa Cruz de La Palma

Map of Nuestra Señora de Las Nieves Sanctuary

Sustainability

- Do not take photos using the flash. They could damage items of artistic and cultural value.
- Use the waste- paper baskets and, insofar as possible, separate and place your recycling waste in the appropriate containers. Do not eat inside exhibition rooms.
- Try to be careful with your rucksack or bag and make sure you do not hit anything when you move.
- Try to be silent or speak quietly so that you do not bother other visitors.