In 1640, a farmer named Giraldo González was working his fields in Hormigueros when a bull charged toward him. As death seemed certain, González cried out to Our Lady of Monserrate for protection. The bull stopped abruptly, turned, and walked away peacefully. Grateful for this miracle, González built a small chapel on the spot and brought an image of the Virgin from the famous monastery of Montserrat in Spain. This began Puerto Rico's most enduring Marian devotion—to Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate de Hormigueros.
Today, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Monserrate rises as a testament to that 17th-century miracle. The distinctive sanctuary, with its Spanish colonial architecture and twin bell towers, draws pilgrims from throughout Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. The miraculous image—carved in Spain and brought to the island over three centuries ago—presides over a shrine that has weathered hurricanes, earthquakes, and political upheavals while remaining a constant source of hope for Puerto Ricans seeking Mary's protection.
📜 History & Spiritual Significance
The devotion to Our Lady of Monserrate connects Puerto Rico to the famous Benedictine monastery of Montserrat in Catalonia, Spain. Spanish colonists brought this Marian title to the Caribbean, where it took root among the faithful seeking protection in a challenging tropical environment.
After the 1640 miracle, devotion spread throughout western Puerto Rico. The original chapel was expanded repeatedly as pilgrims multiplied. The current sanctuary, built in the early 20th century, reflects Spanish colonial architecture adapted to Caribbean conditions.
Our Lady of Monserrate is considered the protector of farmers, workers, and all who face danger in their daily lives. Her intercession is sought particularly for protection from natural disasters—a constant concern in the hurricane-prone Caribbean.
☩ Pilgrimage Sites in Hormigueros
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Monserrate
Puerto Rico's principal Marian shrine
The early 20th-century sanctuary features twin bell towers and Spanish colonial architecture. The miraculous image of Our Lady of Monserrate, carved in Spain in the 17th century, occupies the main altar. The sanctuary preserves the memory of the original miracle while serving as a center of contemporary devotion.
Miracle Site Memorial
A marker indicates the location where the miracle of the bull occurred, now incorporated into the sanctuary grounds.
Pilgrims' Plaza
The area in front of the sanctuary accommodates large gatherings during feast days and special celebrations.
🕯️ Annual Feast Days & Celebrations
Feast of Our Lady of Monserrate — September 8
The principal celebration draws pilgrims from throughout Puerto Rico for Mass and traditional festivities.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception — December 8
Important Marian celebration with special observances.
Hurricane Season Prayers — June to November
During hurricane season, special prayers are offered for protection.
🛏️ Where to Stay
Hotels in Mayagüez (15 km) — The nearest major city with full hotel facilities.
Hotels in Aguadilla (30 km) — Coastal city with resort and business hotels.
Paradores (inn) — Government-certified small hotels throughout western Puerto Rico.
🚗 Getting There
By Air: Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla (BQN) is 30 km north. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan (SJU) is 150 km east.
By Car: From San Juan, take Highway 2 west to Highway 102, then follow signs to Hormigueros (approximately 2.5 hours). From Mayagüez, take Highway 102 north (15 minutes).
By Bus: Public transportation (guaguas) serves Hormigueros from Mayagüez and other western towns.
🧭 Nearby Pilgrimage Destinations
Higüey, Dominican Republic (400 km southeast) — Our Lady of Altagracia.
Camuy (45 km east) — Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen.
🪶 Closing Reflection
"He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly." — Luke 1:52 (NABRE)
