Catedral Metropolitana de Santiago de Guatemala, Catholic cathedral in Zone 1, Guatemala.
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago de Guatemala is a church in the city center built from white stone with twelve entrance pillars and blue domes. The neoclassical design gives the building a formal, symmetrical appearance that anchors the downtown skyline.
Construction of this cathedral started in 1782 and was finished in 1815, with the towers completed later in 1867. The long building period reflects many architectural changes made during construction.
The twelve entrance pillars display names of people lost during Guatemala's civil war, creating a space where visitors can pause and remember. This transforms the threshold into a quiet memorial.
The cathedral is open to visitors on weekday afternoons and offers free entry. It's a good idea to check specific hours in advance, as they can shift seasonally or for special events.
The main altar holds a venerated image of the Immaculate Conception that received special papal recognition in 2004. This religious distinction draws pilgrims who come to venerate this particular representation.
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