La Serena Cathedral
Coquimbo
The Our Lady of Mercy Cathedral, also known as La Serena Cathedral, is the main cathedral of the Archdiocese of La Serena and the largest religious building in the city. Situated at the northeastern corner of Plaza de Armas, it stands on the site of the original parish church La Matriz-El Sagrario, founded in 1549 during the city's establishment. The current cathedral was constructed between 1844 and 1856 in a neoclassical architectural style, designed by French architect Juan Herbage. It measures approximately 60 meters in length and 20 meters in width, featuring three central bodies and limestone walls made from local stone. The cathedral's interior includes three barrel vaults with unfinished painted decorations, black and white marble flooring arranged like a chessboard, and imported stained glass windows from France. Noteworthy elements include two marble altars, four wooden side altarpieces, and a large tubular organ donated by philanthropist Juana Ross de Edwards. The bell tower, redesigned by Eugenio Joannon in 1912, is the third iteration and dates from the 20th century. The cathedral also houses the crypt of the bishops and archbishops of La Serena and serves as the resting place of the city's founder, Francisco de Aguirre, among other notable figures. Declared a National Monument in 1981, it remains a central cultural and religious landmark in La Serena.
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Consejo: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and experience the cathedral's serene atmosphere. Consider attending a mass or special event to appreciate its spiritual significance. Tickets are generally not required for entry, but donations are welcomed. Check the official website or contact the cathedral for updated opening hours and any guided tours. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide excellent lighting for photography, especially of the stained glass and architectural details.
Datos interesantes
- •The cathedral is built on the site of the first church constructed during the founding of La Serena in 1549.
- •Its stained glass windows were imported from France during the tenure of Monsignor Fontecilla.
- •The large tubular organ inside was donated by Juana Ross de Edwards, a notable philanthropist from La Serena.
- •The cathedral contains the crypt of the bishops and archbishops of La Serena beneath the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament.
- •It is the resting place of Francisco de Aguirre, the founder of La Serena.
Historia
The cathedral's origins trace back to 1549 with the establishment of the Parish La Matriz-El Sagrario, the first church in La Serena.
By 1741, it was a single-nave limestone building with seven altars and a mid-height tower.
In 1840, the original parish was demolished to make way for the current cathedral, whose construction started in 1844 under architect Juan Herbage, reusing many materials from the old structure.
Completed in 1856 in neoclassical style, the cathedral underwent further enhancements including the bell tower designed by Eugenio Joannon in 1912.
It was declared a National Monument in 1981, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.
Guía del lugar
Main Nave and Barrel Vaults19th century
The cathedral's interior features three barrel vaults constructed with wooden boards, painted with unfinished biblical scenes and saints, offering a glimpse into 19th-century ecclesiastical art.
Stained Glass Windows19th century
Imported from France, these stained glass windows add vibrant color and light to the cathedral's interior, reflecting its historical ties to European craftsmanship.
Bell Tower1912
The current bell tower, the third on the site, was designed by French architect Eugenio Joannon in 1912 and is a prominent feature of the cathedral's exterior.
Crypt of the Bishops and Archbishops
Located beneath the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, this crypt holds the remains of the city's religious leaders, symbolizing the cathedral's ecclesiastical importance.
Tubular Organ
A grand organ built by Lois Debierre, donated by Juana Ross de Edwards, it enriches the cathedral's musical heritage and is used during liturgical ceremonies.
Contacto
Teléfono: (51) 221 6956