Established in the year 1611, Parroquia de Nuestra Senora de Candelaria, is the oldest and first church in the Province of Camarines Norte.  The church was built by Franciscan friars and features the miraculous image of Our Lady of Candelaria.

The old stone church sits at the center of the town of Paracale, a third class municipality of the province of Camarines Norte.  The church has been a witness to the rich cultural heritage of the province, which structure has withstood a long period of time amidst the natural and man-made calamities.

The image of Our Lady of Candelaria greets every visitor of the church, as embedded in the church facade taking the center position.  As if guarding the whole town, even at a distance the image is quite visible to all the townsfolk and transients.

The simplicity of the church interiors cannot be underestimated.  Paracale is said to be a town of gold with town name derived from para cale meaning canal digger.  Small gold mining operations are likewise currently operating in the said small town.  There are even rumors of gold within the vicinity of the church wanting to be discovered.  But the same continues to be a myth.  

Paracale, being a usual stopover for those who intend to get lost at the Calaguas Group Islands, a visit to the parish church is in order for guidance in the journey to be embarked.