Architecture and faith: indispensable routes through the main churches in the centre of Bogotá

    Cultura 4 min read

    Architecture and faith: indispensable routes through the main churches in the centre of Bogotá

    They are not just shrines of faith: they are temples that allow us to contemplate different types of architectures that allow us to travel to other times. A guide for pilgrims and curious.

    Religious tourism lovers can explore different routes that allow you to visit some of the most representative shrines and parishes in the capital.

    Each circuit is designed for travelers and pilgrims interested in knowing the architectural wealth, the religious legacy and the traditions that make Bogotá an incomparable spiritual destiny. Next, we tell you in detail how to make them, what churches to visit and how to make the most of this experience.

    Route of the historic center

    This circuit allows you to know the oldest and most representative churches in the historical centre of Bogotá. It is recommended to do so by walking, as the distances between the temples are short and the walk allows to admire the colonial architecture of the city.

    Parroquia Nuestra Señora De Las aguas, fachada de atardecer, cielo gris. Lo rodean en la plaza dos árboles a lado y lado y al fondo los cerros orientales con Monserrate. Hay personas en la puerta.

    Our Lady of the waters. Photo: Courtesy, Archdiocese of Bogotá

    The tour begins in the parish Our Lady of the Waters, located in race 2a No. 18a-68 in the Las Aguas district. This church stands out for its simple architecture and quiet atmosphere, becoming an ideal space for reflection to start the route. Its history dates back to the colonial era and its surroundings, surrounded by steep streets and universities, makes it a special place to start this tour.

    The next stop is at the Church Our Lady of the Snow. This Baroque temple is located in the Plaza de Las Nieves (race 7 No. 20) and is recognized for its imposing façade and interior adorned with artistic details that reflect the devotion of the colonial era. It is one of the oldest in Bogotá and its visit is indispensable for lovers of religious art.

    Iglesia de Las Nieves fachada de día cielo gris. Foco angular de iglesia de rayas rojas y amarillas de estilo bizantino, rodeada por edificios de comercio antiguos. A los lados personas caminando.

    Our Lady of the Snow. Photo: Juan Camilo Díaz - TDI Archive

    The Church of San Francisco, located on Jimenez Avenue # 7-10, it will be your third stop. It was built in the 17th century and is the oldest church in the city. Its main altar is a masterpiece of Baroque art carved in golden wood, making it one of the main religious attractions of Bogotá.

    Iglesia San Francisco con su techo tomada con dron desde arriba, al lado un edificio de estilo republicano. Se observa la Carrera séptima con Avenida Jimenez.

    San Francisco Church. Photo: Ricardo Baez - TDI Archive

    The fourth stop will be at the Parish of La Veracruzwhich you will be walking through the historic center. It is left on 16th Street No. 7-19 and there you will find this church with its sober and elegant facade: a space of great relevance to the religious tradition of the city. Historically, it has been a key site in the evangelization and spiritual formation of the community.

    Iglesia de La Veracruz el techo desde arriba tomado con dron, su fachada adronada con dos pinos y un árbol. Se ve la carrera séptima.

    Church of La Veracruz. Photo: Ricardo Baez - TDI Archive

    The Primada Cathedral of Bogotáin the heart of the Plaza de Bolívar, it will be the fifth stop: a majestic temple of neoclassical style and the most important in Colombia. Inside are works of colonial art and the tomb of Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, founder of Bogotá. The next point of the tour is the church of San Ignacio: a baroque-style temple located on 10 # 6-27 street and founded by the Jesuits. It is characterized by its impressive façade and interior with exquisite ornamental details.

    Catedral Primada de Colombia fachada lateral hacia arriba se observan campanarios y torre del reloj. El cielo es azul.

    Primada Cathedral of Colombia. Photo: Ricardo Ba'ez - TDI Archive

    The seventh stop is at the Church of Saint Augustine (race 7a # 6c-25). Recognized for its Baroque architecture, it has been a reference point for the Catholic faith in Bogotá. Its imposing structure and the artistic wealth of its interior make it a jewel of the religious heritage of the city.

    Templo de San Agustín fachada en lateral, puerta abierta, se ven personas caminando al frente. Al lado izquierdo hay un edificio moderno.

    Temple of Saint Augustine. Photo: TDI file

    And we are leaving the best for the end, for before the end of the journey you will visit one of the most emblematic and vistous temples in the capital: that of Our Lady of Carmen, located in race 5 # 8-36. Famous for its striking facade in red and white tones of Gothic style, It protects in its interior impressive glass and an atmosphere of recollection that captivates visitors.

    Iglesia Nuestra Señora Del Carmen fachada de día foto angular contrapicada de iglesia neogótica con rayas blancas y rojas. Dos puertas de madera negra, una abierta y otra cerrada.

    Our Lady of Carmen. Photo: Juan Amarú - TDI Archive

    You will complete this visit exactly in the 4 race with 11th Street, a few steps from the historic center of Bogotá. There, in the Church of Our Lady of the CandelariaYou will be surprised by his exquisite colonial architecture and his strong devotion to the Virgin of La Candelaria.

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