Overview:

is a cathedral located in the city of Cartagena, Colombia. It is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cartagena and a major landmark of the city. The building, designed in the Baroque style, is located on Plaza Fernández de Madrid, and is one of the finest examples of religious architecture in Cartagena. Construction began in 1577 and the building was consecrated in 1612. It was declared a National Monument in 1959. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Colombia
Prominent Features:

The Cartagena Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of Saint Catherine of Alexandria) is the principal Catholic church of Cartagena in Colombia. It was built in 1575 and stands as a reminder of the city’s colonial past. The Cathedral is well-known for its intricate architecture and its richly decorated interior, featuring vaulted ceilings and 12 larger-than-life saints sculpted in wood. The Cathedral has four stunning marble altars, stained glass windows, and several frescoes that depict various scenes from the New Testament. It also contains a reliquary with the relics of Saint Peter Claver. The clock tower of the Cathedral can be seen from miles away and has become a symbol of Cartagena. This national monument of Colombia portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The cornerstone of the Cartagena Cathedral in Colombia was laid in 1577 on the sites of two prior churches. It was built on orders of the Spanish settlers who had taken over the city from a local tribe. The initial construction of the Cathedral included a number of distinct architectural styles, including Gothic, Mudéjar and Renaissance. In the early 19th century, it underwent further renovation and remodelling, thanks to master architect Jesús María Reina, who replaced a majority of the structure with a more neoclassical design. In 1984 the Cathedral was declared a National Monument by the Colombian government. Today, the Cathedral boasts an impressive interior and decor. The Crypt, adorned with several Baroque paintings, includes the remains of former Cartagena bishops. Additionally, its main altar is decorated with five golden retables created by Vicente López at the end of the 18th century. Finally, the Cathedral’s bell tower stands next to its main entrance, where it has welcomed worshippers and visitors since the early 1700s. You must visit one of these historical places in Colombia on your Colombia tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Cartagena Cathedral is the most important church in the city. It was built in 1575 and was the first cathedral of the New World. 2. The Cartagena Cathedral is home to a famous painting of the Virgin Mary called 'La Santisima Virgen de la Altagracia'. The painting has been in the cathedral since 1568 and it is believed to have miraculous powers. 3. The cathedral was originally built with Moorish and Gothic influences in mind. 4. There are two towers on either side of the Cathedral which were added in the mid-18th Century. 5. The Church houses a collection of rare books and manuscripts, including a seven-volume work on Cartagena's History from the 16th and 17th Centuries. 6. The inside of the cathedral is elaborately decorated with murals depicting the life of Jesus and scenes from the Bible. Visit one of the famous monuments of Colombia with your friends and family.