Luján (Argentina), new member of the World Religious Tourism Network

21-03-25

The city of Luján, located in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, has recently been incorporated into the World Network of Religious Tourism, a recognition that highlights its relevance as a pilgrimage destination and its importance in the field of religious tourism on a global level. This distinction places Luján in a privileged place within the international circuit of cities that promote spirituality and faith-based tourism. Luján is recognised for being the epicentre of Marian devotion in Argentina. Its main attraction is the Basilica of Our Lady of Luján, a majestic neo-Gothic temple that houses the image of the Virgin of Luján, patron saint of the country. This basilica is not only an emblem of the Catholic faith but also a pilgrimage destination that receives millions of faithful every year, especially during the annual pilgrimage held in October when crowds walk from the city of Buenos Aires to Luján in an act of devotion and sacrifice.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Luján is a monumental work both architecturally and symbolically. Its construction began in 1887 and lasted for several decades, standing out for its neo-gothic style of European influences with two imposing towers that rise over 100 meters high. The small and simple terracotta image of the Virgin of Luján is the spiritual heart of the temple and has witnessed countless miracles and promises fulfilled over the centuries The basilica is not only a place of prayer and encounter, but also a cultural and touristic reference of the Argentinean nation.

The history of the Virgin of Luján dates back to the 17th century when an image of the Immaculate Conception brought from Brazil was mysteriously detained near the Luján River and could not be moved. This fact was interpreted as a sign that a sanctuary should be built in her honour, which gave rise to the religious fervour that characterises the city to this day.

The World Religious Tourism Network is an initiative that seeks to connect cities with strong roots in faith-based tourism by promoting collaboration between different destinations and the exchange of experiences in the management of religious tourism. Luján's membership of this network represents a recognition of its historical, cultural and spiritual value as well as opening up new opportunities for the tourism and economic development of the region. Luján's inclusion in this network not only reinforces its position as one of the main religious destinations in Latin America but also allows the city to be part of a global circuit together with other iconic sites of religious tourism. This could translate into an increase in the number of international visitors and a greater diffusion of Luján's spiritual and cultural richness.

In the words of Pilar Valdés, director of the World Religious Tourism Network, the incorporation of Luján represents a very significant step for the network "To have this very important enclave in Argentina is an honour and a great opportunity Luján has enormous potential as a spiritual and cultural centre in Latin America and we are involving its representatives in many of our actions at international level. We are counting on them to help us develop religious tourism in Argentina in a sustainable, inclusive way and with identity’" Valdés emphasised.

The incorporation to the World Religious Tourism Network brings with it a series of benefits for the city of Luján and its inhabitants Among them are greater international visibility allowing Luján to position itself as a key destination within the global religious tourism attracting more pilgrims and tourists from different parts of the world economic development driven by a greater flow of visitors that can encourage the growth of the tourism sector benefiting hotels, restaurants, local businesses and other services linked to the activity preservation of heritage with the possibility of accessing conservation and restoration programmes for historical and religious monuments, ensuring the protection of Luján's cultural legacy as well as cultural and religious exchange, facilitating mutual learning with other cities in the network, enriching its tourist offer and strengthening local identity.

Religious tourism is not only a source of economic income but also promotes sustainable and responsible development In the case of Luján, this type of tourism fosters the integration of the local community in the activities linked to the pilgrimage, encouraging the creation of jobs and the dynamisation of the regional economy. religious tourism in Luján could encourage the improvement of the tourism infrastructure with projects that guarantee a quality experience for visitors while respecting the sacred character of the place Sustainability and the preservation of the environment are key aspects to ensure that tourism activity remains in harmony with the religious tradition of the city.

The incorporation of Luján into the World Religious Tourism Network represents a milestone in the city's history and a recognition of its spiritual and cultural significance This achievement not only strengthens its position as a pilgrimage centre of global importance but also opens up new opportunities for its economic and social development As Luján moves forward on its journey as an international religious tourism destination, the city will be able to continue to develop as an international destination for religious tourism. as an international religious tourism destination, the commitment to preserving its identity and improving its tourism infrastructure will be fundamental to guarantee an enriching experience for all those who seek in this city a space of faith, reflection and spiritual encounter, reaffirming Luján's role as a beacon of devotion in Argentina and around the world.

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