Medalla Milagrosa

Medalla Milagrosa Buenos Aires Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: Significance of Medalla Milagrosa in Buenos Aires

Situated at the heart of Parque Chacabuco, Buenos Aires, the Parroquia y Santuario Nuestra Señora de la Medalla Milagrosa—commonly known as Medalla Milagrosa Sanctuary—stands as a beacon of faith, history, and artistry. Originating from the Marian devotion inspired by the Virgin Mary’s apparitions to Saint Catherine Labouré in 19th-century France, the sanctuary is a vibrant spiritual and cultural landmark. Since its inauguration in 1941, Medalla Milagrosa has drawn countless pilgrims, art enthusiasts, and visitors seeking inspiration and solace within Buenos Aires’ rich religious traditions (official sanctuary site, programafe.org).

The sanctuary’s architecture combines neo-Romanesque and Neo-Gothic Revival elements, highlighted by soaring domes, twin towers, and the city’s most extensive stained glass collection, crafted by Catalan artist Antonio José Estruch (baiglesias.com, buenosaireshistoria.org). The church’s role extends beyond its artistic splendor—it acts as a Vincentian center for worship, charity, and community engagement, especially notable during the annual Miraculous Medal feast on November 27 (medallamilagrosa.org.ar).

With free admission, accessible facilities, and a prime location near other city attractions, Medalla Milagrosa is a must-visit for anyone exploring Buenos Aires’ spiritual and cultural landscape.

Contents Overview

History and Origins
Architectural Highlights
Stained Glass and Artistic Heritage
Restoration & Conservation Efforts
Religious and Cultural Importance
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Access
Special Events and Liturgical Life
Practical Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Facilities and Amenities
Visitor Experience
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact Information
Summary & Recommendations
Official Sources

History and Origins

The sanctuary’s origins are rooted in the Marian devotion associated with the Miraculous Medal, stemming from the Virgin Mary’s 1830 apparitions in Paris. The devotion arrived in Argentina in the early 20th century, culminating in the sanctuary’s construction and its inauguration in 1941. Over the decades, it has become a Diocesan Sanctuary and a recognized site of Cultural Interest by the Buenos Aires City Legislature (programafe.org, baiglesias.com).

Architectural Highlights

Exterior Design

Medalla Milagrosa is a striking neo-Romanesque structure with rounded arches, solid masonry, and a monumental staircase. Twin campanile towers, hexagonal domes, and a five-meter-high statue of the Virgin Mary define its imposing silhouette (programafe.org).

Interior Features

The vast nave, ribbed vaults, transept, and semi-circular apse create a luminous and contemplative space. The sanctuary’s extensive stained glass, marble altars, and intricately carved chapels reflect both Romanesque and Neo-Gothic influences (baiglesias.com).

Stained Glass and Artistic Heritage

The sanctuary boasts approximately 150 stained glass windows, the most in Buenos Aires, created by Antonio José Estruch. These panels narrate Marian events, Vincentian saints, and local lay associations’ contributions (buenosaireshistoria.org). Artistic treasures also include Carrara marble altars, frescoes, a restored pipe organ, and silver liturgical objects.

Restoration & Conservation Efforts

A major restoration of the stained glass began in 2017, led by the Universidad Nacional de San Martín and vitralista María Paula Farina Ruiz, funded through the city’s Cultural Patronage Program. The project involved meticulous cleaning, repair, and documentation, ensuring the sanctuary’s artistic legacy endures (baiglesias.com, buenosaireshistoria.org).

Religious and Cultural Importance

Marian Devotion

Dedicated to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, the sanctuary is a major pilgrimage site, especially during the annual feast on November 27 (medallamilagrosa.org.ar). Pilgrims seek intercession, healing, and spiritual enrichment.

Vincentian Tradition

Rooted in the Congregation of the Mission and Daughters of Charity, the sanctuary emphasizes service to the poor. The stained glass windows and community outreach reflect this Vincentian charism.

The sanctuary supports education, charity, and social justice initiatives, inspired by lay leaders like Adelia Hiralaos de Olmos (medallamilagrosa.org.ar).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Monday to Sunday: 08:00–12:00, 16:00–20:00 (medallamilagrosa.org.ar)
27th of Each Month: 08:00–21:00 (extended hours for devotions)

Admission

Admission is free. Donations are welcome to support restoration and social programs.

Mass Schedules

Monday–Saturday: 08:00, 10:00, 19:00
Sunday: 08:30, 10:00, 11:30, 17:30, 19:00
27th of Each Month: Multiple services throughout the day

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrances and facilities
Assistance available with prior notice

Guided Tours

Available by request through the parish office, especially for groups and pilgrims.

Travel Tips

Access via Subway Line E (“Medalla Milagrosa” station) and multiple bus lines
Limited parking—public transport recommended
Modest attire expected
Photography allowed outside services; avoid flash and tripods without permission

Special Events and Liturgical Life

Feast of the Miraculous Medal: November 27, with processions and special Masses
Special Masses: For the sick, deceased, and expectant mothers, on designated days
Sacraments: Baptisms, confessions, and blessings are offered; contact the parish for details

Practical Tips

Dress modestly; services are in Spanish
Bring cash for donations or purchases at the religious shop
Summer is hot and humid; winter is mild
Standard urban safety precautions apply

Facilities and Amenities

Religious Shop: Medals, rosaries, devotional items
Restrooms: Available for visitors
Seating: Ample inside for worship and reflection
Cinerarium: For ashes of the deceased
Gift Shop: Religious souvenirs and books

Nearby Attractions

Parque Chacabuco: Green space for walks and recreation
Museum of Natural Sciences and other local historical sites
Authentic cafés and bakeries within walking distance

Visitor Experience

Visitors consistently describe the sanctuary as peaceful and welcoming, with a serene environment for prayer, contemplation, and cultural appreciation. On major feast days, the atmosphere transforms with vibrant processions and communal celebrations (iglesiadelpilar.com.ar).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there an entrance fee?
No, entry is free.

Can I attend Mass without registration?
Yes, Masses are open to all.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, upon request via the parish office.

Is the sanctuary wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with accessible entrances and facilities.

Can I take photos?
Photography is permitted outside worship times; please be discreet.

How do I get there by public transport?
Subway Line E (“Medalla Milagrosa” station) and several bus lines serve the area.

Is there a shop on site?
Yes, the religious shop offers devotional items during opening hours.

Contact Information

Address: Av. Curapaligüe 1185, Parque Chacabuco, CABA, Argentina
Parish Office: Av. Asamblea 1551, Parque Chacabuco, CABA
Phone: +54 11 4921-2165
WhatsApp: +54 9 11 7364 1349
Email: [email protected]
Official Website: medallamilagrosa.org.ar

Summary & Recommendations

The Medalla Milagrosa Sanctuary is an exceptional destination that blends spiritual significance, artistic grandeur, and community service. Its neo-Romanesque beauty, unrivaled stained glass, and welcoming atmosphere make it a highlight for visitors seeking to explore Buenos Aires’ cultural heritage. Free admission, accessible amenities, and regular liturgical life ensure a meaningful experience for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Enhance your visit by joining a guided tour, attending a special celebration, or exploring the sanctuary’s virtual resources online. For current updates and event information, consult the official website or download the Audiala app.