- Address: Esteban Arze, Plaza Principal, 14 de Septiembre, Cochabamba, Bolivia
- Construction: 1701 - 1735 years.
- Phone: +591 4 4223331
Cochabamba rightfully occupies a place of honor in the top three of the megalopolises of Bolivia . Moreover, this city successfully holds the primacy in terms of natural beauty and picturesque landscapes, lying among mountain ranges that interspersed with fertile valleys. It was built by the Spaniards according to a precise plan: the squares of 100 to 100 m. The main block was the Plaza 14 de Setiembre, which today is quite a busy and popular place among tourists. And this is not surprising, because there are a lot of historical buildings, one of which is the cathedral of Saint-Sebastian.
History of the Cathedral
The history of the cathedral of Saint-Sebastian dates back to 1701. Then in place of a small church built in 1619, which was reminiscent of the foundation and the main gate, a majestic church was erected. According to the idea of the architects, it was part of a kind of religious urban development, which consisted of a chain of 15 churches. Even today, in the same square, diagonally from the cathedral of San Sebastian, is the church of the Order of Jesus.
In 1967, the church of Saint-Sebastian was recognized as a national monument of history, and in 1975 he was elevated to the rank of a cathedral.
Architectural features
In terms of architecture, this monument of history is also of considerable interest. In the external elements of the decor, a harmonious composition of eclecticism and baroque was reflected. The longitudinal and transverse naves of the cathedral of San Sebastian are designed in such a way that from the height of the bird's flight one can see the Latin cross. The interior of the temple is distinguished by crystal whiteness, which creates a unique feeling of airiness and enlightenment. Painted ceiling fascinates with its solemnity and color scheme. On the walls of the temple you can see many paintings, both modern and earlier. In addition, the interior interior is decorated with a variety of sculptures on religious themes. The real artifacts among the objects of church usage are the gilded altar and the grotto of Inmakulada - the Holy Virgin of the Immaculate Conception.
Despite such a rich past, the temple has a very unenviable present. Although in 2009 the church was restored, the threat from natural disasters remains topical. Time does not pass without a trace even for stone walls. Today urgent repairs are required on the roof of the temple. In addition, the paint on one of the altars is significantly damaged. However, the Cathedral of San Sebastian and today it is an active temple, and the parishioners are invited to celebrate various religious holidays together. Here, tourists are happy to welcome, providing free admission, but ask for respect and small donations for temple repairs in return.
How to get to the cathedral?
The Cathedral of Saint-Sebastian is located in the main square of Cochabamba , Plaza 14 de Setiembre. From the bus station and the railway station, you can take a taxi. Another option is to take a leisurely walk through the city center, and in 15 minutes you will reach your destination.
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