Overview:

: The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira In Colombia is a Roman Catholic church built inside the tunnels of a salt mine, located about 184 feet below ground in the Zipaquira municipality of Cundinamarca. The cathedral was constructed in 1954 and is a popular tourist destination which draws more than one million pilgrims and visitors each year. It is one of the oldest Catholic sites in South America and is known for its unique combination of salt sculptures and a grandiose Gothic architecture. The entrance to the mine features a peaceful garden plaza, while the interior of the mine includes three chambers, each more grand than the last. The first chamber features a sculpture of Jesus, and the second chamber a sculpture of Jesus with his twelve apostles. The last chamber is the main church, with a massive hall, stunning stained glass windows, and a grand altar. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Colombia
Prominent Features:

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira in Colombia is an extraordinary landmark that stands out from its surroundings. Built in the tunnels of an ancient, abandoned salt mine from the 5th century, the Cathedral of Salt is a stunningly designed testament to faith and ingenuity. The shafts of the cathedral include three separate levels: an upper level, with altars and sculptures lit by six industrial skylights; a middle level, where worshippers can gather to pray and a lower level which features an impressive mined-out grotto of stalactites and stalagmites. Each level offers a unique and breathtaking experience, with the whiteness of the salt contrasting sharply against the bright colors of the sculptures and hardwood accents. From the moment its doors opened in 1995, the Salt Cathedral has attracted pilgrims from around the world, its architectural beauty and spiritual message deeply touching those who visit. This national monument of Colombia portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is a renowned Catholic church located in Zipaquirá, Colombia. The church is built within the tunnels of a salt mine, and is one of the major tourist attractions of the region. The Salt Cathedral is a basilica-style complex, and its various chapels are approximately 200–230 meters below ground level, making it part of a major tourist destination in Latin America. The Salt Cathedral was first operated in 1990 after the success of its precursor, the Chapel of the Nativity, which was built inside the mine tunnels in 1954. The Salt Cathedral was officially consecrated as a Catholic parish in 1995 and was visited by Pope John Paul II three years later. The Salt Cathedral is known for its impressive architecture, which includes vaulted crypts, a central nave, and majestic red and black walls connected by Stations of The Cross. The Catatumbo Cross and the Christ of Zipaquirá, both works of art by Colombian sculptor Santiago Martinez Delgado, are situated within the Cathedral. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá has been voted as one of the top destinations to visit in Latin America and has become one of the most visited tourist attractions in Colombia. It is a symbol of faith, hope and the human endeavor of a Colombian people striving to make sense of the beauty of their country. You must visit one of these historical places in Colombia on your Colombia tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is the largest underground Roman Catholic church in the world. 2. The church is built within the tunnels of a salt mine, located 200 meters underground. 3. The construction of the Salt Cathedral began in 1950 and ended in 1954. 4. The primary purpose of the church is to provide a spiritual and emotive space for the salt worker miners of Zipaquira. 5. In 1995, the Salt Cathedral was visited by Pope John Paul II. 6. The underground Basilica has three sections, representing the birth, life and death of Jesus Christ. 7. The main and largest hall of the Salt Cathedral is referred to as the “Nativity Scene” with over 200 two meters tall Salt stalactites representing the figures of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. 8. The Salt Cathedral is illuminated by over 400 lights and is adorned with 80 sculptures as well as many lights, marble and murals. Visit one of the famous monuments of Colombia with your friends and family.