Caracas Cathedral
Distrito Federal
Caracas Cathedral, officially known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Anne, is the seat of the Roman Catholic archdiocese in Caracas, Venezuela. Situated prominently on Plaza BolĂvar, it serves as a significant religious and historical landmark. The cathedral's origins date back to the mid-17th century when a mud-walled chapel dedicated to St. James was first built but destroyed by an earthquake in 1641. The current structure began construction in 1666 and was completed in 1674, with its façade designed by Francisco AndrĂ©s de Meneses in 1771. Architecturally, the cathedral features a Romanesque plan with five naves supported by 32 octagonal columns, and the interior is adorned with gilded altars and elaborate side chapels. It houses notable artworks, including pieces by Rubens, Murillo, and Venezuelan painter Arturo Michelena. The BolĂvar family crypt is located here, containing the remains of SimĂłn BolĂvar's parents and wife, underscoring the cathedral's cultural importance. Despite suffering damage from multiple earthquakes, notably in 1812, the cathedral has undergone several restorations. Its historic organ, built in 1711 by Claudio Febres, and its role as a religious and cultural hub make it a unique monument in Caracas.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the cathedral during weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially on religious holidays. Purchasing tickets or arranging guided tours in advance can enhance the experience. The cathedral is accessible year-round, but early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting for photography. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Check local schedules for any special events or masses that might offer unique cultural insights.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral’s chapel of the Holy Trinity is the burial site of SimĂłn BolĂvar’s parents and wife.
- •The cathedral once housed the city’s only public clock in its brick steeple in 1812.
- •The organ inside the cathedral was built in 1711 by French immigrant Claudio Febres.
- •SimĂłn BolĂvar’s remains were housed here from 1842 until 1876 before being moved to the PanteĂłn Nacional.
- •The cathedral’s side altars include notable artworks by Peter Paul Rubens and Bartolomé Esteban Murillo.
History
The original church at this site was a small chapel dedicated to St.
James, built in the mid-1600s but destroyed by the 1641 earthquake.
Reconstruction began in 1666, completing the cathedral in 1674.
The façade was added in 1771, designed by Francisco Andrés de Meneses.
The cathedral suffered damage from major earthquakes in 1766 and the devastating 1812 quake, which destroyed part of the structure and led to the reduction of one tower.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the cathedral underwent restorations and modifications, including significant work in 1932 and the 1960s.
It has long served as a religious center and a burial site for the BolĂvar family, with SimĂłn BolĂvar’s remains temporarily interred here before being moved to the PanteĂłn Nacional.
Place Guide
Main Altar and Altarpiece
Located at the end of the central nave, the main altar features gilded decorations and serves as the focal point of worship within the cathedral.
BolĂvar Family Altar
This prominent altar is located on the right aisle and includes a modern sculpture of SimĂłn BolĂvar titled 'El Libertador'. It honors the liberator’s family whose crypt is within the cathedral.
Cathedral Organ1711
Built in 1711 by Claudio Febres, this historic French-crafted organ remains a prized feature of the cathedral’s musical heritage.
Artworks Collection
The cathedral houses important sacral artworks, including 'The Resurrection' by Rubens, 'Presentation of the Virgin' by Murillo, and 'Last Supper' by Arturo Michelena.
