Landmark 13 km west of Bernal
A huge neoclassical basilica in Colón, one of Querétaro's busiest pilgrimage shrines, dedicated to the Virgin of Sorrows.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Sorrows of Soriano rises over the small town of Colón, about 12 kilometers west of Bernal, and is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Querétaro.
Its story begins in 1687, when Dominican friars founded the mission of Santo Domingo de Soriano here with a few dozen Chichimeca Jonaz families. In 1705 they brought an image of the Virgin of Sorrows, and so many pilgrims came to see it that the little mission church was eventually not enough. The present basilica was built between 1880 and 1912 under the priest Román de la Vega, in a sober neoclassical style. The old church of Santo Domingo still stands behind it, and the Vatican named the new building a minor basilica in 2009.
The busiest days are Good Friday and September 15, when the town fills with pilgrims. On other days it is calm, and the visit pairs well with a stroll around Colón for bread and ice cream.
What to see and do
Step inside the basilica to see the venerated image of the Virgin of Sorrows.
Find the old 17th-century mission church of Santo Domingo behind the basilica.
Visit the community museum next door, with displays on local history and farming.
Try the traditional bread and ice cream shops in the center of Colón.
Getting there
Colón is about 12 km west of Bernal, roughly 20 minutes by car on the paved road that links the two towns. On Good Friday and September 15 expect heavy traffic and crowds; arrive early.
13 km west of Bernal
Directions from Bernal on Google Maps
Distances are in a straight line; the road is usually longer.
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Weather mild
Basílica de Soriano shares the climate of Bernal, 13 km away. The best months to visit are Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov.
Make Bernal your base
Basílica de Soriano is an easy trip from Bernal, a Pueblo Mágico with places to stay, food, and more to see.
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