Tepeyac
Built on the Cerro de Tierra Colorada, the Tepeyac Retreat Center is guarded by religious images placed on both sides of 36 stairs, which lead the visitor to the main building of the center. From this point, the tourist has panoramic views of the city of San Rafael del Norte and the green mountains that surround it.
The establishment began its construction in 1976 as an initiative of the Italian father Odorico D'Andrea, who was a member of the Order of the Minor Franciscans and dedicated himself to organize missions in the city of San Rafael del Norte. When visiting the premises, one is surrounded by a large number of trees and can visit the retirement home, a dining area, kitchen, 36 rooms and private parking.
An interesting fact is that inside the center is also the tomb of Father Odorico (March 22, 1990), who - even today - is a very beloved and respected character of the inhabitants of San Rafael del Norte, since this one He developed different humanitarian projects with the community. The Tepeyac Retreat Center is one of them.
Semana Santa is probably the best time to visit the city, since thousands of parishioners gather at the Tepeyac and use the 36 stairs of the place to recreate the traditional Via Crucis and its 12 stations. This is, therefore, one of the most well-known religious expressions in the city of San Rafael del Norte.
