Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Altagracia

Higuey is mostly noted for a place of worship called the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Altagracia, the country's most important religious site. The basilica contains a much venerated, 16-century portrait of the virgin of Altagracia, some believe that it can bring miraculous cures. You can't fail to spot the huge cathedral from anywhere in town-it has the tallest carillon in the Americas. Each January 21, thousands of religious pilgrims make their way to the Basilica to celebrate the procession of our lady of Altagracia, the holiday recognizes the country's patron saint. It is one of the largest annual religious processions in the country.