Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento, Buenos Aires - Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne
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Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento Buenos Aires

4.8
·1k reviews·Buenos Aires, Argentina

An opulent 1916 basilica with Romanesque & Gothic flair, featuring stunning marble, mosaics, and unique confessionals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento, Buenos Aires - Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne

Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento Buenos Aires

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An opulent 1916 basilica with Romanesque & Gothic flair, featuring stunning marble, mosaics, and unique confessionals.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"A spectacular basilica, much less crowded than the cathedral, offering peace and magnificent detailing."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Seek Quiet Contemplation

Less crowded than the main cathedral, perfect for prayer and reflection.

📸 Capture Hidden Beauty

The basilica is a photographer's dream with its intricate details.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Opulent Interior Details

Opulent Interior Details

Main Nave

Marvel at the rich ornamentation, diverse marbles, mosaics, and filigree wood carvings. A feast for the eyes!

The Grand Altar

The Grand Altar

Main Altar

A truly huge and magnificent altar that commands attention and awe. A central point of devotion.

Individually Decorated Confessionals

Individually Decorated Confessionals

Side Aisles

Eight unique confessionals, each adorned with elaborate woodwork, showcase incredible craftsmanship.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Serenity

This basilica, while less crowded than the main cathedral, can still see visitors. For a truly peaceful experience, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Avoid weekends if you prefer quiet contemplation.

Discover Hidden Architectural Gems

Tucked away between buildings, the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento is a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Its opulent interior, featuring diverse marbles and intricate woodwork, is a photographer's dream.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late Weekday Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dicas que você precisa saber quando for a Buenos Aires na Argentina! 🇦🇷 #buenosaires #argentina
@mlvillanova
33.5K likes • 780.6K views

🤫 Seek Quiet Contemplation

Less crowded than the main cathedral, perfect for prayer and reflection. Reddit

📸 Capture Hidden Beauty

The basilica is a photographer's dream with its intricate details. Instagram

Photo by @buenosaires.pasajes +++++++++++++++ 𝐏𝐀𝐒𝐀𝐉𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐀 𝐊𝐀𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐇 . ⛪La Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento sólo puede ser observada en todo su esplendor, desde el Pasaje Corina Kavanagh. 🎁Fue donada a la Congregación de los Padres Sacramentarios por Maria Lina de las Mercedes Castellanos de la Iglesia de Anchorena. Viviendo en París asistía a una iglesia donde se adoraba al Santísimo Sacramen...
latin.catholicphotography
164 likes • 0 views
reddit.com

Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral. Buenos Aires, Argentina [OS][OC]

📍 Find the Hidden Entrance

It's nestled between buildings, so look carefully! Reddit

🗓️ Crypt Visit Days

The crypt is accessible only on Fridays from 9 AM to 3 PM. Reddit

reddit.com

Planning a trip to Argentina!

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Seek Quiet Contemplation

Less crowded than the main cathedral, perfect for prayer and reflection. Reddit

📸 Capture Hidden Beauty

The basilica is a photographer's dream with its intricate details. Instagram

📍 Find the Hidden Entrance

It's nestled between buildings, so look carefully! Reddit

🗓️ Crypt Visit Days

The crypt is accessible only on Fridays from 9 AM to 3 PM. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento for its breathtakingly opulent interior, intricate details, and peaceful atmosphere, often noting it as a less crowded alternative to the main cathedral. Some appreciate its historical significance as a former private chapel and its status as a Basilica. The crypt's limited access is a minor point of note for some.

"Beautiful Basilica in the heart of the central business district. Another well maintained and European-style church. The Basilica was designed after the Cathedral in Angoulême, France."

L’ Angloy

"A spectacular basilica. Much less crowded than the cathedral. If you want to pray in peace and quiet, this is where you need to go. Magnificent detailing throughout."

Nicholas Jenson

"One of the most richly ornamented churches in Buenos Aires. Built in 1916 and dedicated to the blessed Sacrament, the church belongs to the order of the Sacramentines founded by Saint Peter Jullian Eymard.
Located in the neighbourhood of Retiro half a block from Plaza San Martin and calle Florida, it is open daily and is a place of refuge from the busy downtown area."

Dario Ricardo

What People Like

Stunning opulent interior
Intricate architectural details
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Crypt access limited

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The basilica is located in the Retiro neighborhood, near Plaza San Martín and Calle Florida. It's often described as being 'hidden' between other buildings. You can reach it by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also convenient options for reaching this central business district location. TikTok

Yes, the area around the basilica is well-served by public transport. Many bus routes pass through the Retiro district, making it accessible from various parts of the city. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date route information. TikTok

Since it's situated between other buildings, it's best to use a GPS or map application. Look for its address and be prepared to walk a short distance from the main streets. Locals might also be able to point you in the right direction if you ask. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the basilica is generally free, as it is a place of worship. However, donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep and preservation. Reddit

The basilica is typically open daily, serving as a refuge from the busy downtown area. Specific hours can vary, so it's advisable to check locally or look for signs upon arrival. Reddit

Yes, the crypt can be visited, but only on Fridays between 9 AM and 3 PM. Plan your visit accordingly if you wish to explore this part of the basilica. Reddit

No, there is no specific entrance fee. It's a functioning church, and visitors are welcome to enter and admire its architecture and interior. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside the basilica, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or other visitors. Avoid using flash photography, especially during prayer times, to maintain a serene atmosphere. Instagram

The main nave, with its grand altar and intricate details, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The individually decorated confessionals and the diverse marble work are also highly photogenic. Instagram

While generally allowed, be considerate of worshippers and avoid disruptive photography. Some specific areas might have temporary restrictions, so observe any posted signs. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Architecture & History

The basilica is a magnificent example of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements, built in 1916. It was designed with inspiration from the Cathedral in Angoulême, France. Reddit

It was originally built as a private church for the Anchorena family, a prominent Argentine family. Maria Lina de las Mercedes Castellanos de Anchorena was instrumental in its creation. Reddit

The interior is renowned for its opulent detailing, featuring numerous types of marble, intricate mosaics, filigree wood carvings, and eight uniquely decorated confessionals. The grand altar is also a significant feature. Reddit

The title of 'Basilica' is an honorific bestowed by the Pope, signifying a church of particular importance or veneration. This award highlights the basilica's special status. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento is a place of worship, its stunning architecture and detailed interiors can captivate older children. The sheer opulence and unique features, like the individually decorated confessionals, can spark curiosity. It's a good option for a quieter, more reflective outing compared to bustling tourist spots. Consider it for a brief visit to appreciate art and history, perhaps as part of a broader exploration of the city's landmarks. Reddit

⛪ Religious & Spiritual Visitors

For those seeking a spiritual experience, the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento offers a peaceful sanctuary. Its dedication to the Blessed Sacrament and its status as a Basilica make it a place of particular veneration. Visitors have noted its serene atmosphere, making it ideal for prayer and quiet contemplation, a welcome respite from the city's energy. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This basilica is a dream for photographers. Its intricate Romanesque and Gothic details, opulent marble interiors, mosaics, and unique confessionals offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. The 'hidden' nature of its location adds to its allure. Be sure to capture the grand altar and the play of light within the nave. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Grandeur and Historical Significance

The Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento is a breathtaking testament to early 20th-century religious architecture in Buenos Aires. Constructed in 1916, its design draws heavily from Romanesque and Gothic styles, reminiscent of European cathedrals, particularly the Cathedral of Angoulême in France.Reddit What sets it apart is its origin as a private chapel for the influential Anchorena family, commissioned by Maria Lina de las Mercedes Castellanos de Anchorena. This private patronage allowed for an extraordinary level of detail and opulence in its construction.

The interior is a symphony of rich materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Visitors are struck by the extensive use of various types of marble, creating a visually stunning effect. The walls and ceilings are adorned with intricate mosaics and delicate filigree wood carvings, showcasing the skill of the artisans involved. A particularly noteworthy feature is the presence of eight individually decorated confessionals, each a unique work of art in its own right. The sheer scale and beauty of the main altar further enhance the basilica's grandeur, making it a truly awe-inspiring space for contemplation and admiration. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the basilica holds historical and spiritual significance. It is dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament, reflecting its devotional purpose. The fact that it has been awarded the title of 'Basilica' by the Pope underscores its importance and venerable status within the Catholic Church.Reddit For those interested in history, art, and architecture, the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento offers a profound glimpse into Buenos Aires' past and its enduring religious heritage.

A Photographer's Paradise

For photographers, the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento is an absolute gem, offering a wealth of visual opportunities both inside and out. Its unique positioning, nestled between other buildings, presents an interesting challenge and reward for capturing its facade. However, the true magic unfolds within its walls. The opulent interior is a dreamscape of textures, colors, and light, perfect for capturing stunning architectural shots.Instagram

Key areas to focus your lens on include the grand main altar, which dominates the space with its impressive scale and intricate detailing. The diverse marble work throughout the basilica provides a rich palette for close-up shots, highlighting the varied patterns and colors. Don't miss the eight uniquely designed confessionals; each one is a miniature masterpiece of woodwork and artistry, offering fantastic opportunities for detailed photography.Reddit The play of light filtering through the stained-glass windows can also create dramatic and beautiful effects, especially during certain times of the day.

When photographing inside, remember to be respectful of the sacred space. While photography is generally allowed, avoid using flash, especially during services, and be mindful of other visitors. Capturing the scale and intricate details of the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento will undoubtedly result in a portfolio of breathtaking images that do justice to this hidden architectural marvel. Instagram

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