El Santo Cerro, La Vega, (The Holy Hill, La Vega) is one of those places shrouded by myth and tradition. On March 25, 1494 Columbus faced his first major battle against Taino Indians, led by the Cacique (Chief) Guarionex. It is said that Columbus planted a wooden cross at the summit of this hill. In the midst of the battle, the Virgin Mary appears behind Columbus' cross; this apparition stuns the Indians and gives Colombus the momentum to win the battle of el Santo Cerro. Today, the hole left by Columbus' cross (El Santo Hoyo) is still preserved in the interior of the church Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes. It is no surprise that the people of this community hold such strong religious and traditional values. El Santo Cerro is a national shrine, and a perfect example of Dominican Republic's culture and folklore.