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Divine Providence Hospital: A Sanctuary of Healing and Remembrance

A place of healing and remembrance, where faith, history, and social justice intertwine in the heart of San Salvador.

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The Divine Providence Hospital in San Salvador is more than just a medical facility; it's a place of profound historical and spiritual significance. Founded in 1966 to care for cancer patients, it is also where Archbishop Óscar Romero was assassinated in 1980, making it a pilgrimage site for those inspired by his life and work.

A brief summary to Divine Providence Hospital

Local tips

  • Visit the Monsignor Romero Historical Center to learn about his life and work.
  • Attend a mass in the chapel where Óscar Romero was assassinated.
  • Reflect on the significance of Romero's legacy and his impact on social justice.
  • Consider volunteering at the hospital to support its mission of caring for cancer patients.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Salvador, you can take a bus towards the Av. Bernal area. Buses are a common and affordable way to get around the city. Look for buses that display 'Av. Bernal' on their windshield. The cost is approximately $0.20-$0.35 per ride. Once on Av. Bernal, look for the intersection with Calle Toluca; the hospital is located at that intersection. Be aware that bus routes and schedules may not be readily available, so it's helpful to ask locals for guidance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in San Salvador. A taxi ride from downtown to the Divine Providence Hospital will likely cost between $4 and $6, depending on traffic and distance. Ensure the taxi meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your journey. Ride-sharing apps will provide an estimated fare before you book the ride.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Av. Bernal area, walking to the hospital is a viable option. Use a map app to guide you to the intersection of Av. Bernal and Calle Toluca. The hospital is easily identifiable once you are in the vicinity.

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Discover more about Divine Providence Hospital

The Divine Providence Hospital, located in San Salvador, is a place of healing that intertwines medical care with deep historical and spiritual meaning. Established in 1966 by the Carmelite Sister Luz Isabel Cuevas, the hospital was created to provide care for El Salvador's cancer patients, regardless of their economic status. The land was donated by Mrs. Bertha Rivas de Albinana, and the facility was built to offer standard cancer treatments, including radiation. However, the hospital's significance goes beyond medical care. It is most notably known as the place where Archbishop Óscar Romero was assassinated on March 24, 1980, while celebrating Mass in the hospital's chapel. Romero, a vocal critic of social injustice and violence, lived in a small room on the hospital grounds from 1977 until his death, ministering to patients and advocating for the poor. His living quarters are now the Monsignor Romero Historical Center, displaying his personal belongings and items from the day of his martyrdom. The chapel, originally established to provide spiritual support to hospital patients, is now a pilgrimage site. The altar where Romero was killed is preserved, with a protective glass enclosing the spot where he fell. The hospital continues to be run by Carmelite sisters who offer help to low-income cancer patients. The complex, including the chapel and historical center, serves as a reminder of Romero's legacy and his commitment to the people of El Salvador. Visiting the Divine Providence Hospital offers a unique opportunity to reflect on faith, social justice, and the enduring impact of Óscar Romero's life and sacrifice. It is a place where visitors can learn about Salvadoran history and honor the legacy of a man who stood up for the oppressed.

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