See & do · Landmarks & architecture
Catedral Primada de Colombia
Opening hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Images provided by Google Places
Intricate cathedral started in 1807 during Spanish rule & completed after independence in 1823.via Google
The neoclassical cathedral dominating the eastern side of Plaza de Bolívar, standing on the site where the city's first mass was held.
- Good to know
- Free to enter; dress respectfully.
Reviews from Google
Catedral Primada de Colombia is one of the most visited Cathedral in Colombia! Built in 1500 AD, this Cathedral is located at Bolivar Square, in the historic center of La Candelaria in Bogotá. It’s a neoclassical tattle building with ancient architecture. A must visit spot in Bogota!
The Catedral Primada in Bogotá stands as one of the city’s most beautiful and meaningful spiritual landmarks. The moment you step inside, the calm atmosphere, soft lighting, and graceful architecture create a sense of peace. The high ceilings, elegant arches, and quiet chapels invite slow reflection. It’s a place where history and faith blend naturally, making it a wonderful spot to pause, pray, or simply appreciate its timeless beauty.
Bogotá Cathedral—unlike many churches in Latin America—is not a colonial building, as the current church dates back to the 19th century. Designed in the Neoclassical style by Friar Domingo de Petrés, it features clean lines, balanced proportions, and a sense of grandeur that reflects the architectural trends of its time. As such, it boasts beautiful architecture and remarkable artwork, but in a distinct style compared to older churches in the region. Walking through it, you'll encounter intriguing pieces in the side chapels, each telling a different story. Pay special attention to the chapel behind the main altar, which houses a choir for the canonicos, adding to its ecclesiastical grandeur. This cathedral is not only the largest in Colombia but also the Primate Cathedral, a title granted by Pope Leo XIII in 1902. Originally, it stood as a humble mud-and-straw chapel, where Bogotá’s first Holy Mass was celebrated on August 6, 1538. Over the centuries, it evolved into its current form, shaped by Friar Domingo de Petrés between 1807 and 1823. While it doesn't share the same colonial aesthetics as churches like San Francisco, its historical importance, intricate chapels, and artistic treasures make it well worth a visit. Just remember, this is not a typical Latin American colonial church, but rather an architectural gem of its own era.
One thing about Colombia, beautiful cathedrals like this one do not have an entrance fee. One thing I enjoy about visiting Bogota Colombia as well as other churches and cathedrals is the beauty about them. If you are blessed to visit Bogota Colombia and you want to see cathedrals a Must is the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral. It's a cathedral carved into a mountain which is mostly Salt; yes Salt. It's out of this world a Must See!!!
The most iconic building of the Plaza de Bolivar! With the mountains in the back and the architecturally more modern buildings around it stands in great contrast to the entire area! In person even more beautiful than on pictures!