Catedral Metropolita de Caracas- Venezuela
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Caracas Cathedral

4.7
·182 reviews·Caracas, Venezuela

A Romanesque cathedral dating to the 17th century, famed as Simón Bolívar's baptismal site and housing significant art.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Good Friday

Traditional 7 temples visit

CrowdHigh
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Catedral Metropolita de Caracas- Venezuela

Caracas Cathedral

Best Time

Good Friday

Traditional 7 temples visit

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Romanesque cathedral dating to the 17th century, famed as Simón Bolívar's baptismal site and housing significant art.

4.7
(182 reviews)

"A jewel of Caracas architecture, this cathedral boasts five naves and beautiful stained-glass windows."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Visit Plaza Bolívar First

The cathedral is right across from Plaza Bolívar, a great starting point to soak in the historic atmosphere.

⛪ Admire the Architecture

Take time to appreciate the cathedral's Romanesque style, five naves, and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Five Naves & Stained Glass

Five Naves & Stained Glass

Interior

Explore the expansive interior with its five naves and admire the vibrant, colorful stained-glass windows that illuminate the space.

Arturo Michelena's 'The Last Supper'

Arturo Michelena's 'The Last Supper'

Chapel

Witness the poignant, unfinished masterpiece by Venezuelan painter Arturo Michelena, a significant artistic work within the cathedral.

Simón Bolívar's Baptismal Site

Simón Bolívar's Baptismal Site

Baptismal font

Stand where Venezuela's liberator, Simón Bolívar, was baptized, connecting with a pivotal moment in national history.

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Planning Your Visit

Historic Heart of Caracas

The Caracas Cathedral is a cornerstone of the city's historic center, located opposite Plaza Bolívar. Its rich history dates back to the 16th century, with the current structure largely from the 17th and 18th centuries. It's a significant landmark, not just architecturally, but historically, as Simón Bolívar was baptized here. Reddit

Architectural Gem & Art

Marvel at the cathedral's five naves, chapels, and vibrant stained-glass windows. Inside, you'll find Arturo Michelena's unfinished masterpiece, 'The Last Supper.' The cathedral houses a collection of religious art and colonial altarpieces, making it a cultural treasure. Reddit

Best Times

When
Good Friday
Why
Traditional 7 temples visit
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

PERO MIREN ESTO DIOS MÍO. miren que inexplicable e increíble es esto que tenemos Y GRATIS, tan fácil de ver y disfrutarrrrrrrr. Dios mío 🥹 mi Venezuela tan hermosa, te amo te amo te amoooooo
@danieladibx
205.4K likes • 1.6M views

🎯 Visit Plaza Bolívar First

The cathedral is right across from Plaza Bolívar, a great starting point to soak in the historic atmosphere. InstagramReddit

⛪ Admire the Architecture

Take time to appreciate the cathedral's Romanesque style, five naves, and beautiful stained-glass windows. Reddit

Caracas Caracas / Binomio de Oro ❣🎶🎧#caracascaracas #binomiodeoro #vallenatosdeoro #dedicarvideos #paratiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii #fyp #viral
@musicbasic6
64.4K likes • 925.5K views
Beautiful square with monuments and the Cathedral in the center of Caracas in Venezuela🇻🇪 My new travel start here and will continue for South America🌎 #caracas #southamerica #travel #viralreels #traveler #travelblogger #square #cathedral
spallamax_world
34 likes • 149 views

🖼️ Seek Out Michelena's Art

Don't miss Arturo Michelena's unfinished 'The Last Supper,' a significant artistic piece within the cathedral. Reddit

📸 Capture the Facade

The symmetrical facade with neoclassical pilasters is a great photo opportunity, especially with Plaza Bolívar in the foreground. TikTokReddit

The Cathedral of St John the Baptist 🙏 Gerry Caracas
chessiecalicdan
1 likes • 40 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Visit Plaza Bolívar First

The cathedral is right across from Plaza Bolívar, a great starting point to soak in the historic atmosphere. InstagramReddit

⛪ Admire the Architecture

Take time to appreciate the cathedral's Romanesque style, five naves, and beautiful stained-glass windows. Reddit

🖼️ Seek Out Michelena's Art

Don't miss Arturo Michelena's unfinished 'The Last Supper,' a significant artistic piece within the cathedral. Reddit

📸 Capture the Facade

The symmetrical facade with neoclassical pilasters is a great photo opportunity, especially with Plaza Bolívar in the foreground. TikTokReddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

While not huge, the historical and artistic details warrant a thoughtful visit, so don't rush. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(182 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Caracas Cathedral as an iconic and beautiful landmark in the historic center, right across from Plaza Bolívar. Its architectural grandeur, featuring five naves and stunning stained-glass windows, is frequently highlighted. The presence of Arturo Michelena's unfinished 'The Last Supper' and its historical connection to Simón Bolívar add significant cultural value. While some note its size might be considered small by some, its importance and beauty make it a highly recommended visit for understanding Caracas's heritage.

"Caracas is very nice"

Максим Шмелёв

"Bella"

Katiuska Galeano

"The Caracas Cathedral is one of the most iconic places in the historic center, located right across from Plaza Bolívar. Don't miss it. Upon entering, you'll be amazed by its size; it boasts five naves, several chapels, and beautiful, colorful stained-glass windows. It's a jewel of Caracas architecture."

Francis Monange

What People Like

Iconic historic landmark
Beautiful architecture
Stained-glass windows

What People Dislike

Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Caracas Cathedral is located in the historic center of the city, directly across from Plaza Bolívar. You can reach this area by taxi or ride-sharing services. Public transport options might be available, but it's advisable to check current routes and safety recommendations locally. TikTok+1

Parking in the historic center of Caracas can be challenging. It's often recommended to use taxis or ride-sharing services and be dropped off nearby, rather than trying to find dedicated parking. TikTok

Many visitors explore the historic center on foot, starting from Plaza Bolívar and then visiting the Cathedral. Be mindful of your surroundings and stay aware of your personal belongings. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The Cathedral is adjacent to Plaza Bolívar, which features a statue of Simón Bolívar. Other historic buildings and museums are also within walking distance in the surrounding area. InstagramReddit

While the historic center is a key tourist area, it's always wise to exercise caution. Stick to well-trafficked areas, avoid displaying valuables, and be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Caracas Cathedral is generally free, making it an accessible historical and cultural site for all visitors. TikTok

Opening hours can vary, but typically the cathedral is open during daylight hours on weekdays and weekends. It's best to check locally or confirm with recent visitor information, as hours can change. Reddit

As a place of worship, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting the Caracas Cathedral. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Instagram

Photography is usually permitted inside the cathedral, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful. Avoid using flash photography, especially during services. TikTok

Information on accessibility can be limited. While the main areas might be accessible, some older structures can present challenges. It's advisable to inquire in advance if specific accessibility needs are a concern. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Caracas Cathedral is historically significant as the site where Simón Bolívar was baptized in 1783. It also temporarily housed his remains. Its construction dates back to the 17th century, making it one of the oldest religious buildings in the city. Reddit

The cathedral features a Romanesque architectural style with five naves separated by arches supported by columns. Its facade is symmetrical with neoclassical pilasters, and it has a bell tower with a square base. Reddit

Inside, you can find Arturo Michelena's unfinished painting 'The Last Supper,' as well as a collection of religious images, colonial altarpieces, and artworks from various periods. Reddit

Yes, the Caracas Cathedral remains an active place of worship and is often part of religious traditions like the '7 temples' visit on Good Friday. Reddit

The 'elenanodelacatedraldecaracas' likely refers to a local legend or story associated with the cathedral, possibly a ghost story or historical anecdote, adding a layer of mystery to the site. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior facade, especially with Plaza Bolívar in the frame, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the stained-glass windows and the altar area are visually striking. TikTokReddit

Drone photography might be restricted in urban areas and around historical landmarks. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. TikTok

Natural light filters through the stained-glass windows, creating beautiful effects inside. The exterior is well-lit during the day, and the plaza offers evening photo opportunities. TikTok

Many visitors capture the cathedral from the perspective of Plaza Bolívar, showcasing its grandeur. Close-ups of the facade details and interior architectural elements are also popular. Instagram

Consider capturing the contrast between the historic cathedral and the modern city skyline, or focus on the details of the colonial architecture. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Caracas Cathedral can be an educational experience for families. While the historical and artistic aspects might require some explanation, the sheer scale of the cathedral and the stories behind it can capture children's imaginations. Pointing out Simón Bolívar's baptismal site can connect them to a significant figure in Venezuelan history. Reddit

Keep in mind that younger children might find it challenging to remain quiet for extended periods. Consider a shorter visit focused on the most engaging elements, like the stained-glass windows or the unfinished painting. Exploring Plaza Bolívar just outside offers space for kids to move around before or after the cathedral visit. TikTok+1

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Caracas Cathedral is an essential stop. Its 16th-century origins and continuous evolution through the 17th and 18th centuries offer a tangible link to Caracas's past. The fact that it was the site of Simón Bolívar's baptism and briefly held his remains elevates its historical importance to a national level. Reddit

Delve into the architectural details, noting the Romanesque influences and the modifications made over centuries. Researching the colonial altarpieces and the story behind Arturo Michelena's 'The Last Supper' will enrich the visit. The cathedral is a living museum, reflecting key moments in Venezuelan history and culture. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Caracas Cathedral's History

The Caracas Cathedral, officially known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Anne, is a testament to centuries of history in Venezuela's capital. Its origins trace back to the 16th century, when the first church was built on this very site. Over time, subsequent constructions led to the current cathedral, with its main building largely dating from the second half of the 17th century and the early 18th century. Reddit

Throughout its existence, the cathedral has undergone numerous modifications, including extensions and alterations to its facade and columns. Architecturally, it's a fine example of Romanesque style, characterized by its five naves separated by arches and supported by columns. The symmetrical facade, adorned with neoclassical pilasters, and its distinctive bell tower add to its visual appeal. Reddit

Beyond its architectural merit, the cathedral holds immense historical weight. It is famously the site where Simón Bolívar, the liberator of Venezuela and several other South American nations, was baptized in 1783. For a period, his remains were also housed here before their final transfer to the National Pantheon. This deep connection to national heroes makes the cathedral a revered landmark. Reddit

Artistic Treasures Within

The interior of the Caracas Cathedral is not only a space for worship but also a repository of significant artistic works. One of the most notable pieces is Arturo Michelena's 'The Last Supper,' an unfinished painting that draws considerable attention from visitors. Michelena was a renowned Venezuelan painter, and this work represents a key part of his legacy. Reddit

The cathedral also boasts a collection of religious images, colonial altarpieces, and artistic pieces spanning different eras. The vibrant stained-glass windows are another highlight, casting colorful light into the naves and creating a serene, contemplative atmosphere. These artistic elements contribute to the cathedral's status as a cultural gem in Caracas. Reddit

For those interested in religious art and history, the cathedral offers a rich experience. The combination of its historical significance, architectural beauty, and artistic treasures makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the historic heart of Caracas. InstagramReddit