La Merced Church
Comayagua
La Merced Church, located in the historic colonial quarter of Comayagua, Honduras, is the oldest Catholic church still standing in the country, originally built in 1550 by Fray Gaspar de Quintanilla. Initially named Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción, it was the first church in Honduras to be designated a cathedral in 1561. The church features a Baroque architectural style, sometimes described as American Baroque or late colonial Renaissance, reflecting its colonial era origins. Originally constructed with a thatched roof, it was rebuilt in 1551 to its current form. The church has a capacity for 500 parishioners and remains active as a parish church, with Sundays being the busiest days. Significant historical events include the destruction of one of its towers during an earthquake in 1774 and the addition of the main altarpiece commissioned by President Coronado Chávez in 1820. Today, La Merced Church stands as both a religious center and a notable tourist and historical monument in Honduras.
Plan your trip to Honduras with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to visit on Sundays to experience the vibrant parish mass with around 250 attendees. The church is open to the public as a historical monument, and purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Modest dress is appropriate when attending services or visiting the church. Discounts may be available for groups or students; checking locally for such offers is advisable.
Interesting facts
- •La Merced Church is the oldest Catholic church still standing in Honduras, built in 1550.
- •It was the first church in Honduras to receive cathedral status in 1561.
- •An earthquake in 1774 destroyed one of the church’s towers.
- •The main altarpiece was built in 1820 under the order of President Coronado Chávez.
- •Originally, the church had a thatched roof before being rebuilt in 1551 to its current architectural style.
History
The church was constructed in 1550 during the early colonial era by Fray Gaspar de Quintanilla and originally named Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción.
It was elevated to cathedral status in 1561, the first in Honduras.
In 1774, an earthquake destroyed one of its towers, marking a significant event in its history.
Later, in 1820, the Honduran president Coronado Chávez commissioned the main altarpiece, enhancing its interior.
Despite these changes, the church has continuously functioned as a religious site and remains the oldest standing Catholic temple in Honduras.
Place Guide
Main Altarpiece1820
Commissioned in 1820 by President Coronado Chávez, the main altarpiece is a notable feature of the church’s interior, exemplifying colonial religious art and craftsmanship.
Church Towers1774 (destruction event)
Originally featuring two towers, one was destroyed in the 1774 earthquake. The remaining tower is a key architectural element reflecting the church’s resilience and colonial design.
Contact
Phone: 2772-0028
