🕯️ Difunta Correa Shrine
Argentina
About This Sacred Site
The Difunta Correa Shrine in Vallecito, San Juan Province, is one of Argentina's most visited folk-saint sites. According to legend, Deolinda Correa died of thirst in the desert while following her conscripted husband's army, but her infant son was found alive, still nursing at her breast. Though never recognized by the Catholic Church, the Difunta Correa is venerated by millions of Argentines who leave bottles of water, flowers, and personal items at roadside shrines and at the main sanctuary in Vallecito.
Key Facts
- •The shrine draws over 100,000 visitors during Holy Week alone
- •Pilgrims traditionally leave bottles of water at roadside shrines across Argentina
- •The legend dates to the 1840s, during Argentina's civil wars
- •Not recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church, she is a 'folk saint' (santa popular)
- •Roadside shrines to the Difunta Correa are found along highways throughout Argentina and neighboring countries
Location
Coordinates: -31.4275, -67.4925
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