The sanctuary of Monserrate in the eastern hills of Bogotá can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. It is located at 3,172 meters above sea level, at the top of Monserrate or Cerro de Las Nieves. Devotees walk up an almost two mile path to this traditional site of religious pilgrimage, which began in 1620 with the shrine of Our Lady of Monserrate. The basilica houses the image of the Fallen Lord of Monserrate, an effigy of Christ which, according to the faithful, performs miracles, and at the top visitors can walk the Stations of the Cross.
The history of this sacred place dates back almost 500 years, when Bogotá was founded, and is now an icon of the city.

The mountain was originally named Cerro de Las Nieves, it was baptized by the Muiscas for its frequent cloudiness. Years later, a monastery dedicated to the Virgin of Montserrat was founded there, and a path was created from the church of Las Nieves to the top of the hill with small chapels for the pilgrims. The first religious festivity that had a pilgrimage to this hill was the festivity of the Holy Cross.

At the top of this hill is the shrine of the fallen Lord of Monserrate, made in 1640 by the artist Pedro de Lugo Albarracín. For many faithful Catholics, this statue of the Lord is miraculous and represents a special encounter with God. Hence why every weekend many Colombians and foreigners make the climb up the hill. Faith is the driving force behind why this place receives many visitors.

Building of the sanctuary was completed in 1920. It has a funicular and a cable car to bring visitors to the top, especially those who prefer to get there faster. However, the pedestrian path is ideal for enjoying nature, the vestiges of the indigenous path, exercising, browsing interesting handicrafts and interacting with the rich culture of this country.

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