Sanctuary Sacred Heart of Jesus | Tarapacá

The Sacred Heart of Jesus Sanctuary of Iquique is located in the city of Iquique, in the Tarapacá Region, in northern Chile.

History

• Construction of the Sanctuary: Inaugurated at the beginning of the 20th century in the Arturo Prat Square in Iquique.
• Massacre of the Santa Maria School (1907): Tragic event during a workers’ strike in the saltpeter works of northern Chile, where hundreds of people, including women and children who took refuge in the Sanctuary, lost their lives.
• Place of Memory: Since then, the Sacred Heart of Jesus Shrine of Iquique has been a place of memory and commemoration, remembering the struggle for labor rights and social justice in Chile.

What to see at the Sacred Heart Shrine?

Here’s a concise list of what you can see at the Santuario Sagrado Corazón de Jesús de Iquique:

1. Neogothic Architecture: Marvel at the impressive neogothic architecture of the sanctuary, characterized by high arches, ornate details, and colorful stained glass windows.
2. Interior Decor: Admire the stained glass windows inside the sanctuary, which provide a unique and atmospheric visual experience.
3. Spirituality and Devotion: Experience the atmosphere of religious devotion that defines this sacred place for Catholics.
4. Historical Memory: Reflect on the history of the site, especially in relation to the 1907 Santa María School massacre, and how this event has shaped Chile’s collective memory.
5. Scenic Views: From the exterior, enjoy panoramic views of Plaza Arturo Prat and the historic surroundings of Iquique.

Visiting the Santuario Sagrado Corazón de Jesús de Iquique offers an opportunity not only to explore its architectural and artistic beauty but also to contemplate significant historical events and their impact on Chilean society.

How to get to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Shrine?

To get to the Santuario Sagrado Corazón de Jesús in Iquique, you can follow these directions:

1. Location: The sanctuary is located in Plaza Arturo Prat in the historic center of Iquique, Chile.
2. Transportation Options:
   • Walking: If you’re in downtown Iquique, you can reach Plaza Arturo Prat and the sanctuary by walking.
   • Public Transport: You can use local public transportation such as buses or colectivos that have routes passing near downtown Iquique.
   • Taxi or Uber: Another option is to take a taxi or use services like Uber to get directly to the sanctuary from anywhere in the city.
3. Exact Address:
   • Santuario Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
   • Plaza Arturo Prat 370, Iquique, Chile

Upon arriving at the sanctuary, you can enjoy its neo-Gothic architecture, explore its interior adorned with stained glass windows, and reflect on its historical and religious significance in Chilean society.

Recommendations for visiting the Sanctuary

Here are some recommendations for visiting the Santuario Sagrado Corazón de Jesús de Iquique:

1. Opening Hours: Make sure to check the sanctuary’s opening hours before planning your visit, as there may be specific times for entry and religious activities.
2. Appropriate Attire: As it is a Catholic place of worship, it is recommended to dress respectfully. Avoid clothing that is too revealing or inappropriate for a religious environment.
3. Silence and Respect: Maintain a respectful demeanor inside the sanctuary. It is a place of devotion and reflection for believers, so unnecessary noise or disruptive behavior should be avoided.
4. Explore the Interior: Don’t miss the chance to admire the stained glass windows and neo-Gothic architecture inside the sanctuary. The stained glass windows are often particularly impressive and offer a unique visual experience.
5. Learn About the History: Educate yourself about the history of the sanctuary and the 1907 Santa María School massacre before your visit. This will help you better understand the historical and cultural significance of the place.
6. Panoramic Views from Outside: From the exterior of the sanctuary, take in the panoramic views of Plaza Arturo Prat and the historic surroundings of Iquique.
7. Local Guides: If you wish to learn more about the sanctuary and its history, consider consulting local guides or participating in guided tours available at the site.

By following these recommendations, you can have a rewarding visit to the Santuario Sagrado Corazón de Jesús de Iquique, appreciating its architectural beauty and reflecting on its historical and spiritual importance.

Sanctuary Sacred Heart of Jesus | Tarapacá