June 20, 2024, 9:20 pm
1. Santuario de las Lajas
The Santuario de las Lajas is an incredibly awe-inspiring temple located in the Colombian department of Pasto in the city of Ipiales. Constructed in the neo-gothic style, this monastery has been a site of pilgrimages since the 18th century. While the cathedral has obvious religious importance, it also invokes a sense of appreciation and awe with its location—it spans the distance between two mountains, crossing over the Guáitara River. Having received a Canonical Coronation and having also been declared a cultural heritage of the nation in 1984, the Santuario de las Lajas is definitely worth a visit.
2. Prime Cathedral (Catedral Primada) in Bogota
The Prime Cathedral in Bogota is a neoclassic cathedral located in the well-known Plaza de Bolivar in the city's historical centre. The first cathedral constructed in Bogota, the structure of the cathedral dates back to the 16th century when the Spaniard Don Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada founded Bogota as a city. Of particular interest is the organ located in the cathedral that was constructed in the 19th century. One of Bogota's most traditional and photographed sites, the Cathedral should be on anyone's list of places to visit during their time in Colombia.
3. Zipaquira Salt Cathedral (Catedral de Sal)
The Salt Cathedral is a unique cathedral located in Zipaquira, a short drive or bus ride outside Bogota. The Catedral de Sal has been declared the First Wonder of Colombia and claims to be the most recognized tourist attraction in the country. Definitely, a unique site, the Catedral de Sal is literally a cathedral constructed in salt mines located beneath the ground in the tunnels and caves of an old salt mine. Most assuredly, it is a unique site to see; you should set aside time to tour the Zipquira Salt Cathedral and the newly constructed attractions in its surroundings.
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4. Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandria de Cartagena de Indias
Located in the city of Cartagena on the Caribbean Coast of Colombia, the Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría de Cartagena de Indias is one of the most recognizable elements in the skyline of the historic walled city area of the city. With its original structure commencing construction during the 16th century, the actual cathedral you enter nowadays officially finished construction in the 17th century after attacks from the famous English Francis Drake. With an impressive altar and unique history, the Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría is an interesting cathedral to visit, and you are sure to learn a bit of history if you include it on your itinerary.
5. Iglesia San Francisco Bogota
Declared a national monument in 1975, the Iglesia San Francisco is a Franciscan church that was constructed in the 17th century and boasts a magnificent altarpiece. If for no other reason, you should visit this church to admire the intricate and impressive altarpiece adorning this church.
You can see these beautiful cathedrals in Colombia, which is one of our many authentic tours. See which itinerary is best for you!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nidia Penagos
Nidia started Uncover Colombia after feeling the tug to promote her native country through a positive perspective. What better way to do that than showing visitors the beauty and diversity of her homeland? She was well-aware Colombia didn’t have the best reputation and she wanted to change that. So in 2012, with the help of her Colombian husband and close group of friends, she laid the foundation to build a Colombian tour operator that offers unique adventures, safe experiences and utilises local knowledge on each and every tour.
