The sanctuary is located at an elevation that provides a clear vantage point over the city of Manizales and the surrounding green valleys.
It is a site specifically established to serve the rural and peripheral communities of the Villamaría municipality.
The location is frequently visited by cyclists and hikers due to the challenging terrain leading up to the La Florida area.
Despite its remote feel, it is situated within the administrative boundaries of the Caldas coffee-growing axis.
The Virgin Sanctuary of the Poor, locally known as Santuario de la Virgen de los Pobres, is a hilltop religious site situated in the La Florida district of Villamaría, Caldas. It serves as a regional pilgrimage destination dedicated to the Virgin Mary, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Andean coffee region landscape. The structure is perched on a hillside, requiring a short walk from the main entrance to reach the primary devotional area. The sanctuary is characterized by its open-air aesthetic and its integration into the steep topography of the Caldas department. It functions as a space for community prayer and local religious observances rather than a conventional enclosed temple. The site is a focal point for local faith-based gatherings that take advantage of the elevation for visual prominence.
The perimeter railing overlooking the valley offers the best framing of the sanctuary against the mountain backdrop.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the terrain around the sanctuary is sloped and can be slippery if it has rained.
Bring a light jacket, as temperatures drop noticeably at this altitude compared to the center of Villamaría.
Respect ongoing religious services if you are visiting during a community prayer gathering.
Avoid visiting during heavy rainfall, as the unpaved paths around the sanctuary can become difficult to navigate.
Modest dress is expected as it is a place of active worship; remain quiet to respect those in prayer.
