Dynamic lighting transforms Colombian emblem

The Basilica of the Fallen Lord of Monserrate atop Colombia’s most emblematic hill in Bogotá was built in 1657 and inaugurated as a sanctuary in 1920. This historic site is known for its architecture that mixes neo-Gothic and colonial styles. Its religious significance is centered around a 17th-century sculpture that attracts faithful people from around the world, making it an emblem of identity for the city. Thanks to an avant-garde lighting project utilizing Color Kinetics LED lighting, this monument shines like never before.

Due to the Basilica’s cultural significance, lighting designer Ing. Edward Meza faced the challenge of highlighting its majesty without altering its historical essence. Meza chose to utilize Color Kinetics luminaires to fulfill this task that needed to be completed in just two weeks. This project transformed the space by offering dynamic effects with more than six million shades. Each luminaire was designed to provide not only efficient and modern lighting, but also complete customization to fit the needs of special events, cultural festivities and religious celebrations. Thanks to an advanced remote-control system, the lighting can also be managed with total precision.

Eighteen Color Kinetics Burst Powercore, Intellihue luminaires were responsible for bathing the main columns of the first level in color, situated 0.3 m (1 ft) away from the illuminated surface. Secondly, 51 Blast Powercore, Intellihue luminaires were placed  2m (6.5 ft) away from the walls to generate a homogeneous effect on the second level. The beautiful tower is lit by 24 4-foot Graze Powercore, IntelliHue luminaires to complete the design. All luminaires are controlled by Color Kinetics iPlayer 4. In 2025, the Basílica plans to implement an additional 50 luminaires to add to the visual and functional impact of the user experience.

In search for technology that highlighted the architectural heritage and emphasized its importance, commissioners landed on Color Kinetics. The technology used in the Monserrate Sanctuary is the latest generation of Color Kinetics, which allows the different facades of the church to be illuminated with RGBW luminaires, capable of delivering the range of color needed for this project with easy programming and remote and precise control.

Lighting designer Eng. Edward Meza says “designing and programming this project has been one of the most rewarding challenges of my career. The joy and enthusiasm of the people who visit the sanctuary of Monserrate, make all the effort worthwhile. It is important to know the history and importance of this great landmark and dynamic lighting can tell fantastic stories.”