Faith resonates in every corner of Bogotá and Cundinamarca. A 2024 census conducted by the Secretariat of Planning revealed that Bogotá is home to 1,544 Catholic churches, many of which are authentic architectural jewels in the Gothic and Colonial styles. Visitors can admire numerous paintings and works by some of the most prominent figures in religious art. Notable temples, such as the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Health in Bojacá, stand as testaments to this rich heritage.
Holy Week, which coincides with the Jubilee of Hope 2025 campaign, offers a wonderful opportunity to explore these historic temples in the capital and across the department’s 116 municipalities.This initiative seeks to position the region as a premier destination for religious tourism, showcasing its spiritual richness, architectural heritage, and deep connection to the message of hope, reconciliation, and faith renewal.
The official launch of Holy Week 2025 will take place on March 20 at 10:00 a.m. at the Primatial Cathedral of Colombia. The event will be attended by notable figures, including the Mayor of Bogotá, Carlos Fernando Galán; the Governor of Cundinamarca, Jorge Emilio Rey Ángel; and the Director of the Bogotá Tourism Office (IDT), Andrés Santamaría Garrido, among others.
A Key Destination for Religious Tourism
Every year, millions of people visit renowned religious sites such as Mecca, Jerusalem, the Vatican, and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Bogotá and its surrounding areas have significant potential to enhance their appeal in religious tourism through a comprehensive promotion strategy and tourism offerings that connect with the message of the Jubilee of Hope, a global initiative promoted by the Holy See.
In light of the upcoming Holy Week, occurring from April 13 to April 20, a series of tourist circuits has been designed to provide a rich experience for pilgrims and tourists. One of these circuits, "Faith and History in Downtown Bogotá," features key locations such as the Primatial Cathedral of Colombia, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of La Peña, and the churches of San Francisco, La Candelaria, and San Ignacio.
The other circuit, "Emblematic Sanctuaries and Pilgrimage," features the Sanctuary of the Fallen Lord of Monserrate, the Sanctuary of the Lord of Miracles of Buga, and the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes.
Additionally, the route features activities such as the Stations of the Cross at Monserrate and La Candelaria, sacred music concerts, organized pilgrimages, gastronomic fairs, and cultural experiences.
“Bogotá is ready to become a benchmark in religious tourism, both nationally and internationally. Our tourism offering is framed within the Jubilee of Hope, providing unique experiences that blend faith and culture,” said Andrés Santamaría, director of the IDT.
The governor of Cundinamarca, Jorge Emilio Rey Ángel, remarked, "Holy Week 2025 will present an excellent opportunity to enhance religious tourism in our region. We aim to promote our cultural and heritage wealth while welcoming thousands of pilgrims with a message of hope and renewal".
The 2025 religious commemoration matches the Jubilee of Hope global campaign. Get ready to visit sites that highlight the religious heritage of the capital and the entire department.The 2025 religious commemoration matches the Jubilee of Hope global campaign. Get ready to visit sites that highlight the religious heritage of the capital and the entire department.
