Iglesia de la Tercera
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Iglesia de la Tercera

4.6
·177 reviews·Bogotá, Colombia

A serene sanctuary in Bogotá, famed for its stunning, intricately carved wooden interiors and peaceful spiritual ambiance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Iglesia de la Tercera

Iglesia de la Tercera

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene sanctuary in Bogotá, famed for its stunning, intricately carved wooden interiors and peaceful spiritual ambiance.

4.6
(177 reviews)

"A truly lovely church with intricately carved wooden furnishings and altars."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚫 No Photos Allowed

Remember, photography is forbidden inside. Cherish the memories instead!

🙏 Attend a Mass

Experience the spiritual heart of the church by attending a service.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Wooden Furnishings

Intricate Wooden Furnishings

Interior

Marvel at the stunning, detailed woodwork that adorns the altars and furnishings, offering a unique aesthetic.

Spiritual Ambiance

Spiritual Ambiance

Interior

Experience a profound sense of spirituality and peace within this beautifully preserved religious space.

Architectural Charm

Architectural Charm

Exterior

Admire the attractive facade of the church, a notable example among Bogotá's historic religious sites.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visits & Photography Rules

Photography is strictly prohibited inside Iglesia de la Tercera. Visitors are encouraged to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and admire the intricate woodwork with their own eyes. Be mindful of Mass schedules when planning your visit.

Mass Times & Quiet Contemplation

Mass is held weekdays at 7:30 AM and 11:30 AM, and on weekends at 12:00 PM. Plan your visit outside of these times if you wish to explore freely, or attend Mass to experience the church's spiritual heart.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Post-Mass quiet, good light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Afternoon Mass, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚫 No Photos Allowed

Remember, photography is forbidden inside. Cherish the memories instead! Reddit

🙏 Attend a Mass

Experience the spiritual heart of the church by attending a service. Reddit

🕰️ Check Mass Schedules

Weekday Masses at 7:30 AM & 11:30 AM, weekends at 12 PM. Reddit

✨ Admire the Woodwork

The intricate wooden carvings are a true highlight. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚫 No Photos Allowed

Remember, photography is forbidden inside. Cherish the memories instead! Reddit

🙏 Attend a Mass

Experience the spiritual heart of the church by attending a service. Reddit

🕰️ Check Mass Schedules

Weekday Masses at 7:30 AM & 11:30 AM, weekends at 12 PM. Reddit

✨ Admire the Woodwork

The intricate wooden carvings are a true highlight. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(177 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Iglesia de la Tercera for its attractive interior and exterior, highlighting the beautiful, intricately carved wooden furnishings as a unique and pleasant change from more ornate churches. The spiritual atmosphere is frequently mentioned as a key draw, though the strict no-photography rule inside is a notable point for many.

"A very attractive Church inside and out. I went there for Mass on Sunday. As of September 2025 the mass schedule is from Monday to Friday at 7:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.. then on Saturday and Sunday they only have one mass at 12:00 noon."

Maynard Dodson

"A truly lovely church with intricately carved wooden furnishings and altars. Very little gold leaf to be seen, a pleasant change. There is no photography allowed so you will have to take the image away in your memory. A must see in Bogotá"

Sharron Murray

"I love this church but for the spirituality it inspires and all the amazing woodwork."

GG

What People Like

Intricate wooden carvings
Spiritual atmosphere
Attractive architecture

What People Dislike

No photography inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Iglesia de la Tercera is located in Bogotá's historic La Candelaria district. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public buses that frequent the city center. Walking is also a great option if you're exploring the historic area.

Yes, numerous bus routes pass through the city center, making it accessible via public transport. Check local Bogotá transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

If you're exploring La Candelaria, walking is highly recommended. The church is situated within this charming historic neighborhood, allowing you to discover other sights along the way.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Iglesia de la Tercera is generally free. It's a functioning church, and visitors are welcome to enter and admire its beauty.

The church is typically open during daylight hours, but it's best to check specific times as they can vary. Mass schedules are posted and should be respected.

There is no admission fee to enter Iglesia de la Tercera. Donations are always appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic site.

You can visit during Mass, but it's expected that you remain quiet and respectful. If you wish to explore freely without disturbing services, plan your visit outside of Mass times.

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside Iglesia de la Tercera. Visitors are asked to refrain from taking pictures to preserve the sacred atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, you are generally allowed to take photos of the exterior of the church. This allows you to capture its architectural charm from the outside.

The prohibition on photography inside is to maintain the solemnity and spiritual ambiance of the church, allowing visitors to focus on contemplation and prayer. Reddit

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The most striking feature is undoubtedly the intricately carved wooden furnishings and altars. Many visitors note the absence of excessive gold leaf, appreciating the natural beauty of the woodwork. Reddit

The atmosphere is described as spiritual, lovely, and inspiring. It's a place that encourages quiet contemplation and appreciation for its artistry. Reddit

While it's a beautiful church, it's often described as one of many smaller churches in the old city area, suggesting it might be less crowded than major landmarks but still a worthwhile visit. Reddit

As it is a place of worship, it's advisable to dress respectfully. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended if you're exploring the surrounding historic district.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Iglesia de la Tercera is a beautiful and spiritual place, families with young children should be aware that photography is strictly prohibited inside. This might be challenging for kids who love to capture memories. However, the impressive woodwork can still capture their imagination. It's best to visit outside of Mass times to allow for quieter exploration. Consider it a brief stop to appreciate artistry and a moment of calm.

🚶 Solo Travelers & Explorers

For solo travelers, Iglesia de la Tercera offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to appreciate intricate artistry without the distraction of crowds. The no-photography rule encourages you to be fully present and absorb the spiritual ambiance. It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or simply to admire the unique wooden craftsmanship. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Spiritual Seekers

Couples looking for a serene and meaningful experience will find Iglesia de la Tercera a wonderful choice. The church's spiritual atmosphere and stunning woodwork create a romantic and contemplative setting. Attending a Mass together can be a particularly moving experience, fostering a shared sense of peace and connection. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Woodwork

Iglesia de la Tercera is renowned for its exceptional intricately carved wooden furnishings and altars. Unlike many churches that feature abundant gold leaf, this church offers a refreshing aesthetic with its focus on the natural beauty and craftsmanship of wood. Visitors often remark on the detailed artistry, finding it a pleasant change and a significant highlight of their visit. The woodwork contributes significantly to the church's unique charm and spiritual ambiance. Reddit

These wooden elements are not just decorative; they are integral to the church's design, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The skill involved in carving these pieces speaks to the rich artistic heritage of the region. It's an experience that encourages visitors to look closely and appreciate the dedication and talent that went into its creation, making it a memorable part of the visit. Reddit

Spiritual Significance and Visitor Experience

Beyond its visual appeal, Iglesia de la Tercera is cherished for the spirituality it inspires. Visitors often describe a profound sense of peace and reverence upon entering. The church serves as a sanctuary, offering a quiet escape from the bustling city and a space for reflection and prayer. The simple yet elegant design, particularly the focus on woodwork, enhances this spiritual atmosphere. Reddit

Attending Mass at Iglesia de la Tercera provides an opportunity to experience the church's living faith. The posted schedules indicate weekday Masses at 7:30 AM and 11:30 AM, with a single Mass on Saturdays and Sundays at 12:00 PM. Reddit This makes it accessible for both early risers and those visiting later in the day. The community aspect of attending a service can deepen the visitor's connection to the place and its cultural significance.

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