Our Lady of the Pillar Cathedral, Alajuela, Catholic cathedral in central Alajuela, Costa Rica
Our Lady of the Pillar Cathedral is a Catholic church with Baroque design elements, featuring a large interior space with high walls and an open nave. The building is supported by tall towers that rise above the central plaza.
Construction started in 1854 under architect Gustavo Casallini but was delayed by regional conflicts until the building was finished in 1863. Major structural modifications took place during the 1940s and 1950s, strengthening the building.
The cathedral serves as the spiritual heart of the city, drawing many worshippers on feast days to pray together and participate in ceremonies. Local people use the space as a place for quiet reflection and to celebrate their religious traditions.
The building opens daily for visitors to enter and pray or view the interior architecture anytime. Regular services take place throughout the week, so visitors should be aware of active gatherings and behave respectfully.
The feast day of the patroness on October 12 draws pilgrims year after year to witness traditional processions and celebrations. This makes October a special month for the city's religious community.
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