San Juan Cathedral
San Juan
San Juan Cathedral, located in San Juan, Argentina, serves as the main church of both the city and province, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. The current cathedral is one of the most modern in the country, inaugurated on December 16, 1979, and designed by architects Daniel Ramos Correas and Carlos Enrique Vallhonrat. It stands on the same site and orientation as the previous major church that existed before the devastating 1944 earthquake, which severely damaged the original structure. The facade faces east and features two stone-clad walls framing a recessed white central wall, with two tall columns supporting a gently sloping gabled roof, creating an atrium accessed by travertine steps. The bronze portal, crafted in Faenza, Italy, is adorned with bas-reliefs of various saints and emblems. The bell tower, rising 51 meters high, includes a clock reminiscent of Big Ben and a German carillon that chimes every 15 minutes. Inside, the cathedral impresses with its simplicity and sobriety, featuring a central nave separated from two side aisles by twelve columns on each side. The main altar showcases a crucifix surrounded by 64 stars symbolizing Catholic countries, a work in duralumin by Italian sculptor Angelo Bianchini. The cathedral also houses a modern Hammond B3000 organ. Beneath the church lies a crypt with funerary monuments and a private circular altar, illuminated by diffused natural light.
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Tip: Visitors should consider visiting the cathedral during weekday mornings or afternoons to avoid crowds and fully appreciate its architectural details and serene atmosphere. While no specific ticket is required, guided tours may be available through the Archdiocese. The cathedral is accessible by local transport, and nearby parking options exist. Check ahead for any special masses or events that might affect visiting hours.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's bell tower stands 51 meters tall and includes a clock similar to London's Big Ben.
- •The bronze portal was crafted in Faenza, Italy, featuring bas-reliefs of saints such as Saint Rose of Lima and Saint Louis IX of France.
- •The altar's crucifix is surrounded by 64 stars representing Catholic countries, created by Italian sculptor Angelo Bianchini.
- •The cathedral houses a modern Hammond B3000 organ made in Chicago, USA.
- •The crypt beneath the cathedral contains funerary monuments of notable religious figures, including Fray Justo Santa María de Oro.
History
The original cathedral at this site was built in 1712 by the Jesuits as the Church of San José, later becoming the main cathedral in the early 19th century.
The 1944 earthquake heavily damaged the structure, prompting a city-wide reconstruction plan that led to the demolition of damaged buildings, including the cathedral and adjacent episcopal palace.
The current cathedral was designed by Daniel Ramos Correas and inaugurated in 1979, marking a departure from traditional colonial cathedrals in Argentina by embracing modern architectural styles.
The bell tower, with its notable clock and carillon, was also constructed as part of this modern design.
Place Guide
Main Facade1979
The principal facade faces east and features two stone-clad walls framing a recessed white wall with two tall columns supporting the gabled roof, forming an atrium accessed by travertine steps. The bronze portal, made in Italy, displays intricate bas-reliefs of saints and emblems.
Bell Tower (Campanil)1979
Rising to 51 meters, the bell tower has three distinct sections: a 33-meter tall red brick prism base housing stairs and an elevator to a viewing platform, a smaller square section above, and a pyramid-shaped top. It features a clock similar to Big Ben and a German carillon that chimes every 15 minutes.
Interior Nave and Altar1979
The interior is marked by simplicity, with a central nave separated from two side aisles by twelve columns on each side. At the rear is the main altar featuring a crucifix surrounded by 64 stars symbolizing Catholic countries, alongside the archbishop's chair and choir seating. The cathedral also contains a modern Hammond B3000 organ.
Crypt
Located beneath the cathedral, the crypt serves as an emergency space and houses funerary monuments of Fray Justo Santa María de Oro and several bishops. It features a private circular altar with subdued natural lighting entering through a street-level vent.
Contact
Phone: 0264 422-7050
