The conflict between the Diocese of Barbastro-Monzón and Opus Dei over the administration and supervision of the Torreciudad Sanctuary has led Pope Francis to intervene directly, appointing Alejandro Arellano Cedillo, dean of the Tribunal de la Rota, as special delegate of the Vatican for the place.
In a statement issued on September 25, the Diocese of Barbastro-Monzón already warned that the final resolution on the management of the Torreciudad sanctuary would fall to the Holy See, as reported by Ep. Bishop Ángel Pérez Pueyo stated on that occasion that it had not been possible to reach an agreement through dialogue due to “differences in criteria with the Prelature of Opus Dei regarding the legal, canonical and pastoral regularization of Torreciudad.”
This is the sanctuary of Torreciudad
The Sanctuary of Torreciudad is a place of Catholic worship dedicated to the Virgin Mary, located in the municipality of Secastilla, in the province of Huesca, Spain. Located in a natural environment of great beauty in the Somontano region, next to the El Grado reservoir, this sanctuary is an important center of pilgrimage and Marian devotion.
History and Architecture
The current sanctuary was inaugurated in 1975, but its origins are linked to a small medieval hermitage from the 11th century, located nearby, which was also dedicated to the Virgin of Torreciudad. The new building was promoted by Saint Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer, founder of Opus Dei, who had a deep devotion to the Virgin of Torreciudad, as he used to visit her during his childhood.
The modern design of the sanctuary is the work of architect Heliodoro Dols and stands out for its unique red brick structure that blends into the mountainous landscape. The architecture combines traditional elements with a contemporary style, using straight lines and geometric shapes. The architectural complex includes the temple, the esplanade for pilgrims and various facilities such as the “Live the experience of faith” Space, which offers a multimedia perspective of Marian devotion.
Activities and Devotion
Torreciudad is known for attracting thousands of pilgrims each year. One of the most important events is the Family Pilgrimage, held every September, in which families from different places come to entrust themselves to the Virgin and ask for her protection. The sanctuary also hosts numerous spiritual activities, such as retreats, days of prayer and Christian formation programs.
In addition to devotion to the Virgin of Torreciudad, the sanctuary promotes the veneration of various Marian devotions, hosting images of the Virgin brought by groups from different countries.
