Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento Buenos Aires
An opulent 1916 basilica with Romanesque & Gothic flair, featuring stunning marble, mosaics, and unique confessionals.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento Buenos Aires
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An opulent 1916 basilica with Romanesque & Gothic flair, featuring stunning marble, mosaics, and unique confessionals.
"A spectacular basilica, much less crowded than the cathedral, offering peace and magnificent detailing."
🤫 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
Main Altar
A truly huge and magnificent altar that commands attention and awe. A central point of devotion.
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
Discover Hidden Architectural Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 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.
Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral. Buenos Aires, Argentina [OS][OC]
📍 Find the Hidden Entrance
It's nestled between buildings, so look carefully!
🗓️ Crypt Visit Days
The crypt is accessible only on Fridays from 9 AM to 3 PM.
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Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 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.
📍 Find the Hidden Entrance
It's nestled between buildings, so look carefully!
🗓️ Crypt Visit Days
The crypt is accessible only on Fridays from 9 AM to 3 PM.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
No, there is no specific entrance fee. It's a functioning church, and visitors are welcome to enter and admire its architecture and interior.
📸 📸 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.
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.
While generally allowed, be considerate of worshippers and avoid disruptive photography. Some specific areas might have temporary restrictions, so observe any posted signs.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⛪ Religious & Spiritual Visitors
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Significance
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.
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. 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
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. 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.
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