Innovation and Tradition at the Basilica of Chiquinquirá in Maracaibo
Date: June 04, 2026
In the heart of Maracaibo, one of Venezuela’s most beloved and representative places of worship, has undergone a major technological renewal. The Basilica of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá and Saint John of God has been the focus of a comprehensive project that has transformed the sound experience of liturgical celebrations, combining liturgical tradition, acoustic quality, and innovation.
The project, carried out using Belltron products and coordinated by Mauricio Roddy, authorized distributor for Venezuela and Colombia, officially began on September 18, 2025, and was successfully completed in December 2025.
A Completely Renewed System
The project involved replacing the previous Belltron system, based on Giotto Plus technology, with a new electronic bell tower system composed of the DMC-870ATS and Belltron Cloud.
The new configuration enables more modern, flexible, and centralized management of bell ringing, with remote control capabilities not only for the bells themselves but also for functions connected to the daily liturgical organization.
The electronic bell tower was installed in a dedicated rack inside the sacristy and allows automatic programming of liturgical melodies, preserving the Basilica’s traditional sound heritage through contemporary technological tools.
Indoor and Outdoor Audio for a New Liturgical Experience
Alongside the bell tower system, a complete audio system was installed, designed to serve both the interior and exterior spaces of the building.
Outside, six professional loudspeakers were installed, capable of broadcasting voice and liturgical music beyond the church perimeter, reaching worshippers, pilgrims, and passersby.
Inside, the Basilica now features an audio system exceeding 3000 Watts, integrated with:
- two 15” subwoofers designed for special events and large celebrations;
- a dedicated system for the presbytery;
- an additional fully renovated rack for the choir.
This configuration also meets the cultural needs of the local community. Throughout the year, the Basilica hosts performances of traditional music that require a wide, deep, and immersive sound experience.
Technology at the Service of the Community
The renovation went beyond audio distribution alone. The project also included the introduction of connection points for live broadcasting, making it possible for worshippers to participate remotely in celebrations.
To complete the installation, a latest-generation electronic organ and an integrated system for managing bells and clocks were installed, combining liturgical needs with more efficient technical management.
The Archbishop’s Recognition
The quality of the work carried out was also confirmed by the words of Monsignor José Luis Azuaje Ayala, Metropolitan Archbishop of Maracaibo since 2018. At the conclusion of the project, the Archbishop expressed great satisfaction with the final result:
“Now it is a pleasure to celebrate Mass here; I feel that everyone can hear me perfectly!”
A simple yet meaningful testimony that summarizes the value of the project: not merely a technological upgrade, but a concrete improvement in liturgical communication. The Word, the music, and every moment of the celebration can now reach the faithful with greater clarity, depth, and participation.
A Model of Integration Between Heritage and Innovation
Today, the Basilica of Chiquinquirá stands as a virtuous example of dialogue between historical heritage and technology. The new system improves the quality of celebrations, strengthens the bond between the church and the community, and makes the liturgical message more accessible, engaging, and far-reaching.
With this project, Belltron and Campanario Latam reaffirm their commitment to providing solutions capable of respecting tradition, enhancing sacred spaces, and supporting communities toward new forms of participation.
