St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish - The Shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan — Attraction in La Union

I visited this church during a trip to La Union. At the time, I wasn’t yet deeply fascinated by church art and architecture, so I didn’t pay as much attention to the finer details—but even then, I could sense that the place held deep spiritual and historical significance.

Historically, the shrine is one of the most venerated in Northern Luzon. It houses the image of Our Lady of Namacpacan, known for miracles and healing. “Namacpacan” is an Ilocano term meaning “the one who feeds,” reflecting the town’s heritage of hospitality.

The church itself features Baroque-style architecture, large buttresses, and an imposing façade that reflects Spanish colonial influence. The image of the Virgin Mary inside is unusually tall—around 6 feet—clothed in rich garments, and draws many pilgrims throughout the year.

Looking back, it’s a place I’d like to revisit now with a deeper appreciation of sacred art...

Since 1587, Namacpacan was a visita of Purao (presently known as Balaoan). In November 25, 1690, the town was founded and a parish under the advocacy of Saint Catherine of Alexandria was canonically erected. The first church of Namacpacan was built under the supervision of Father Mateo Bustillos, the parish priest from 1695 to 1697. The original site of the church was in Darigayos, a barrio of Namacpacan and was transferred in 1741 to its present site. The image of the Our Lady of Namacpacan was enshrined in the church in 1871.

The church was reinforced with masonry and galvanized iron roof. It was heavily destroyed by an earthquake in 1854. Through the efforts of Father Marcelino Ceballes, the church was restored and the convent was...

Its been decades since we last visited this parish, and am happy that I'am back with my own family now and granting my mothers wish, intercede in her prayers and to see the miraculous Our Lady of Namacpacan once again. It has been declared as a "National Cultural Wealth" ,2001. Preserving its uniqueness, simplicity, and grandeur. It was formerly known as Luna Church, Apo Baket Namacpacan. No wait n line, we came very late in the afternoon on a weekday, if the facade is close, try it from the right side for the entrance going inside.Plenty of...