Bogotá is a city proud of its cultural and historical heritage, and its churches are among the most treasured jewels of its history. Since colonial times, the city has been home to an impressive number of churches, each with its own unique history, architecture, and religious traditions.
The churches of Bogotá reflect the diversity and richness of Colombian culture, interwoven with Spanish and European influences from the colonial period. From the baroque façade of San Francisco Church to the majestic dome of the Primatial Cathedral of Colombia, Bogotá’s churches are true architectural masterpieces that transport you back in time.
Here, we’ll take you on a tour of Bogotá’s oldest and most beautiful churches so you can discover the history, architecture, and culture behind these religious landmarks:
Primatial Cathedral of Colombia
The Primatial Cathedral of Bogotá is the most important church in the city and one of the main Catholic worship sites in Colombia. Built in the 18th century by Spanish architect Domingo de Petrés (Bogotá’s first formally trained architect), the cathedral is a colonial architectural masterpiece.
Its interior is impressive, with gold and marble ornamentation adorning the walls and altars. Additionally, the cathedral holds significant historical, religious, and cultural importance, reflecting the rich history and Catholic tradition of Bogotá and Colombia as a whole. Located at Carrera 7 #11-10.
Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes
The Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes is a Catholic church located in the Chapinero neighborhood. Built in 1875 with structural modifications in 1917, it’s known for its Gothic-style architecture and for housing the image of the Virgin of Lourdes, venerated by Catholics.
It is the second-largest church in Bogotá after the Primatial Cathedral and is located at Carrera 13 #63-27.
San Francisco Church
San Francisco Church is considered the oldest church in Bogotá. It was built in the 16th century and reconstructed in the 17th century after an earthquake in 1785.
Located at Carrera 7 and Avenida Jiménez, it is known for its baroque façade and its stunning interior.
La Candelaria Church
La Candelaria Church, also known as Our Lady of Candelaria Church, is one of Bogotá’s oldest churches, located in the heart of the historic La Candelaria neighborhood at Calle 11 and Carrera 4.
Construction began in 1686 and was completed in 1703 in a Spanish baroque style. Like many churches of its time, it has been declared a National Monument.
Porciúncula Church
Porciúncula Church is a Franciscan church located at Carrera 11 #72-82 in the Chapinero area. Named in honor of the place where the Franciscan movement began,
the original construction took place in 1919 to house a community of Franciscan brothers, which also served as a school of theology and philosophy. In 1923, the first friars arrived, and two years later, it was named La Porciúncula in honor of the Assisi sanctuary in Italy. Construction was completed in 1943, and the church became a parish in 1942. In 1978, the cloister was demolished to build the Granahorrar Shopping Center, now known as Avenida Chile Shopping Center, and in 1980 the students were moved, making La Porciúncula solely a parish.
Church of the Conception
The Church of Our Lady of Conception is a Catholic temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary in historic Bogotá. Originally part of a monastery, it was built between 1583 and 1595 in a colonial style with a rectangular nave and two entrances on the right side. Due to its architectural, cultural, and historical value, the temple was declared a National Monument in 1975 and remains an important place of worship in Bogotá’s archdiocese.
San Agustín Church
San Agustín Church in Bogotá is a Catholic church dedicated to Saint Augustine of Hippo, located in the city’s historic sector.
Built between 1642 and 1668 as part of the former convent of the Order of Saint Augustine, the church witnessed the Battle of San Agustín in 1862 and houses important colonial-era religious artworks. Due to its architectural, cultural, and historical significance, it has been declared a National Monument.
It’s clear that the churches of Bogotá are true architectural and cultural gems worth visiting. Each one has its own history and style, making them unique and fascinating. From ancient colonial churches to more modern ones, each reflects the city’s cultural and religious richness.
If you’re in Bogotá, be sure to visit at least one of these impressive churches to experience their beauty, spirituality, and national history.
