Our Lady of Altagracia 2024 (Dominican Republic): Dominicans celebrate Our Lady of Altagracia Day, also known as the Day of the Lady of Altagracia, on January 21 all over the world. This day is devoted to the veneration of the Virgin Mary, specifically a portrait of her from the 16th century that is presently housed in the Dominican Republic’s Salvaleón de Higüey. The Spanish term “Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia” refers to one of two days observed in the country that honor the Virgin Mary; the other is September 24 and is known as “Our Lady of Mercedes Day.”
The Dominican Republic has a lengthy history of association with the Virgin Mary and is linked to two distinct legends.
A tale is told of a young girl in Salvaleón de Higüey during the sixteenth century whose merchant father carried back gifts for her from his travels. Following a dream in which she saw a painting of the Virgin Mary, the young girl one day begged her father to retrieve that identical painting. Without success, her father sought far and wide for this photograph. Ultimately, compelled to concede defeat, he returned home with a brief halt at an inn for rest. An elderly man with a painting titled ‘Our Lady of Altagracia’ overheard the merchant as he began to commiserate with his companions regarding his whereabouts.
The merchant’s daughter loved this artwork and hung it on her bedroom wall. Every morning, she found the painting under an orange tree outside her house. The family decided that the painting should be shown for all Dominicans to view, not only for their family. A church was erected at this location as a tribute to the Virgin Mary and her painting. In remembrance of this tale, individuals continue to bestow oranges upon the image.
An alternative account of origin pertains to Alfonso and Antonio Trejo, two European siblings from the 16th century, who were among the initial inhabitants of the Dominican region of the island of Hispaniola. They transported a Virgin Mary painting, which they donated to the church in Salvaleón de Higüey upon relocating there. The painting has since been revered in the community. Ultimately, the Catholic Church determined that a special mass and feast would be performed annually on January 21 in honor of the painting and celebration of the Virgin Mary.
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In addition to visiting the cathedral in Higuey, followers celebrate throughout the nation by hosting various festivals, engaging in feasts, singing, dancing, and all-night vigils.
From the Spanish name of the Virgin Mary, “Altagracia” translates to “high grace.”
Even though various celebrations hold greater significance for different individuals, Christmas is likely the most anticipated holiday among Dominicans.
As the Greatest of Saints, Our Lady of Altagracia would be the subject of an abundance of melodies of homage. Explore this music catalog available online and select the one that most resonates with you.
Acquire some literature and texts to discuss the painting’s history. Additionally, you can lend and distribute these anecdotes to your loved ones to further captivate others with this intriguing historical account.
Enjoy a feast in Dominican fashion by gathering an assortment of citrus. Cook them, consume them fresh, or plant an orange tree; regardless of how you choose to honor the humble orange, be sure to include it in your Our Lady of Altagracia celebration.
The Christian-Catholic faith was introduced to the Dominican Republic during the Spanish colonial period and quickly rose to prominence as the dominant religion.
Annually, over 800,000 individuals pay their respects at the Basilica for this commemorative occasion.
The depicted image portrays a scenario that transpired immediately following the birth of Jesus Christ in the manger.
It is composed of enamel, gold, and precious stones and is likely among the most exquisite examples of Dominican goldwork.
After its presentation in 1922, the image was bestowed with crowns in 1979, the latter being a gilded tiara that Pope John Paul II personally bestowed upon the Virgin.
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January 21 | Sunday |
| 2025 | January 21 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | January 21 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | January 21 | Thursday |
| 2028 | January 21 | Friday |
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