Nestled in the small town of El Rincón – on the outskirts of Havana (15km) – the San Lázaro Sanctuary (also known as National Sanctuary of San Lázaro or El Santuario Nacional de San Lázaro) is one of Cuba’s most revered religious sites, drawing thousands of pilgrims and curious wanderlusts each year to embark on a pilgrimage.
The iconic church is renowned for its powerful spiritual energy, rich cultural traditions, and vibrant local celebrations, offering visitors a deeply moving experience – whether you’re religious, spiritual, or simply intrigued by Cuban heritage. A popular point of interest en route to the bustling capital, many tourists visit the temple to light a candle for the saint or to simply soak up its sensational architecture.
A Brief History of the Sanctuary
History buffs will delight in the church’s fascinating past. Built in the 17th century, the sanctuary’s origins actually relate to the Havana Leper Colony – now a Specialised Dermatological Hospital – which was transferred to the El Ricon area in the early 20th century. It wasn’t until the 90s that the building was declared a national sanctuary – perhaps part of the reason it’s so popular with tourists today?
The Best Time to Visit: Day of San Lázaro Celebration
While the sanctuary is open year-round, the most significant time to visit is December 17th, also known as the Day of San Lázaro celebration. On this day, thousands of devotees make their annual pilgrimage in honour of San Lázaro, the patron saint of healing and the sick, before lighting a candle and praying.
Watching people arrive at the sanctuary is a spectacle in itself, with many followers walking on foot, barefoot or even crawling to the altar on their hands and knees in a pure act of devotion. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, deeply rooted in both Catholic and Afro-Cuban religious traditions – particularly Santería, where San Lázaro is syncretized with Babalú Ayé, the orisha of illness and healing.
Other notable aspects include the presence of the colour purple (you’ll spot this on everything from clothing to candlesticks), people wearing jute sacks, and miniature statuettes of the saint plastered everywhere.
If you’re looking for a quieter time to visit, the off-season (spring or early autumn) is your best bet, when you can explore the sanctuary in a more reflective and peaceful atmosphere. For the full experience, be sure to visit the nearby museum, Capilla de Los Exvotos and the Fuente Milagrosa (miraculous fountain) before you leave – legend has it, the waters have healing properties.
Key Highlights & Landmarks at San Lázaro Sanctuary
We’ve rounded up a few key highlights to ensure your journey to the sanctuary is as worthwhile as possible:
- The Sanctuary Church: Of course, this is the first place we’ll start. Built in 1917, the church is simple yet sacred, housing the iconic statue of San Lázaro, dressed in purple robes and accompanied by loyal dogs – key symbols of healing and devotion.
- Offerings & Rituals: Visitors often bring gestures including candles, flowers, and symbolic offerings like cigars or coins. You’ll notice a mosaic of faith and folklore throughout the grounds, too.
- Healing Grounds: Outside the church, the grounds play host to locals and visitors pray for miracles, light candles, and participate in rituals believed to bring healing or good fortune.
- Museum of San Lázaro: A small but insightful museum provides visitors some context to the religious and cultural history of the sanctuary and its role in Cuban society today.
Why visit?
Visiting such an iconic, cultural monument will always be a thought-provoking experience for tourists eager to learn more about the country they’re visiting – particularly when there are so many spectacular beaches to steal your attention away!
If you’re debating visiting San Lázaro Sanctuary, our advice is to absolutely do it. Whether you’re travelling with youngsters or you’re simply interested in learning more about the culture yourself, it’s an incredible way to experience first-hand how locals blend faith, tradition and community – something school books can’t always capture.
It also offers a better understanding of how African traditions merged with Catholic practices under colonialism to form new, unique religious expressions – just like Santería.
Pair with a Visit to Havana
The San Lázaro Sanctuary is perfectly positioned around 30 minutes from Havana, making it an easy and rewarding day trip. After a morning of reflection at the sanctuary, spend your afternoon exploring the culture-trodden cobbles of Old Havana, with its colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and historic landmarks like El Capitolio, Plaza Vieja, and the Malecón. For further education, a visit to the iconic Museum of the Revolution is sure to provide great insight, or if you’re all history-ed out, a ride in a classic car makes the perfect end to the day.
San Lázaro Sanctuary is so much more than a religious monument. It’s a testament to Cuba’s resilience, belief systems, and the power of faith in everyday life. Whether you’re personally seeking spiritual insight, cultural enrichment, or simply a deeper understanding of Cuba beyond its famous tourist beaches, a visit to El Rincón is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Piqued your interest? For details on how to book an experience like this, get in touch with our fantastic Love Cuba team on 020 3820 4402 or email us at enquiries@lovecuba.com and we’ll tailor your trip for you.
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more information on Cuba holidays, Multi Centre Cuba Holidays or Tailor Made Cuba Holidays – please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba holiday specialists on 0207 071 3636 or email: enquiries@lovecuba.com today.
