About Basilica of La Virgen Divina Pastora
The Minor Basilica of La Virgen Divina Pastora, also known as Gapan Church, is a Roman Catholic basilica and national shrine located in Barangay San Vicente, Gapan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. Established as a parish in 1595 and rebuilt in its present Baroque form in the 19th century, it enshrines the revered image of La Virgen Divina Pastora. Declared a National Shrine in 1986 and a Minor Basilica in 2024, it is a major pilgrimage center in Central Luzon.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a historic Baroque-style church with a white and beige facade, twin bell towers, and a spacious interior with a central nave, altar enshrining the image of La Virgen Divina Pastora, stained glass, and religious artworks. The complex includes a church plaza, grotto, and parish facilities in an urban setting in central Gapan. Visitors can attend Mass, light candles, view devotional displays, and explore the church grounds and nearby religious souvenir stalls.
Key highlights
- 01
Enshrined image of La Virgen Divina Pastora, patroness of Gapan
- 02
Baroque architecture with twin bell towers and restored facade
- 03
National Shrine status since 1986 and Minor Basilica title granted in 2024
- 04
Historic Three Kings Parish dating to 1595
- 05
Annual feast and pilgrimage celebrations centered on May 1