Catedral Metropolitana, Buenos Aires - Atardecer en la plaza de bolivar en Pereira
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Catedral Metropolitana Buenos Aires

4.7
·9k reviews·Buenos Aires, Argentina

Historic neoclassical cathedral, former seat of Pope Francis, housing the tomb of Argentina's liberator, José de San Martín.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Catedral Metropolitana, Buenos Aires - Atardecer en la plaza de bolivar en Pereira

Catedral Metropolitana Buenos Aires

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic neoclassical cathedral, former seat of Pope Francis, housing the tomb of Argentina's liberator, José de San Martín.

4.7
(9k reviews)

"Majestic in scale, its architecture stands out from other colonial cathedrals in Latin America."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the city center. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Water & Sunscreen

Buenos Aires can get warm, especially when exploring Plaza de Mayo. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mausoleum of General José de San Martín

Mausoleum of General José de San Martín

Inside the Cathedral

The tomb of Argentina's liberator, a deeply significant and moving monument.

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Main Nave and Altar

Admire the majestic scale, intricate designs, and Latin American-style baroque decoration.

Pope Francis Museum

Pope Francis Museum

Side Chapel

Discover artifacts and history related to Pope Francis's time as Archbishop of Buenos Aires.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons. Weekends can be busy with locals and events. Check for organ concerts, which are free and a unique experience.

Getting Around Buenos Aires

The SUBE card is essential for public transport (buses and subte/metro). You can purchase and recharge it at kiosks. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center, especially around Plaza de Mayo.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Free organ concerts
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

3 #consejos si viajas a #buenosaires #argentina #viaje #turismo #dolarblue #taxfree #transporte #fyp #recomendaciones
@pruebaporelmundo
56K likes • 873.6K views

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the city center. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Water & Sunscreen

Buenos Aires can get warm, especially when exploring Plaza de Mayo. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Si vienen a Buenos Aires preparense para caminar y comer mucho 🤭🩵 #Vlog #buenosaires #tips #datos #viajeros #trip #argentina
@paulaximena.gt
37.7K likes • 630.3K views
Catedral Metropolitana de Buenos Aires 😍. . Es la primera vez que la visitamos y nos quedamos asombrados. . Fue muy emocionante ver el Mausoleo del Gral. José de San Martín. . Horarios: Lunes a viernes de 7:30 a 18:30hs Sábados de 9 a 17hs Domingos de 9 a 18hs Feriados de 10 a 15hs . CICLO DE ÓRGANO 2023. Conmemoración de los 150 años de la inauguración del órgano mayor, en 1873. Terceros Domingos...
conociendo.ba
4.2K likes • 107.1K views

Get a SUBE Card

Essential for using the subte (metro) and buses. Recharge at kiosks. :credit_card:

Free Guided Tours

Inquire about free guided tours to learn more about the cathedral's history. :information_desk:

🎹 CICLO DE CONCIERTOS DE ÓRGANO 2024 . CATEDRAL METROPOLITANA DE BSAS . Una vez al mes 📅 Domingos 🕗 16:30h 🎟️ Gratis, sin inscripción previa 📍San Martín 27 CABA Próximas fechas en el reel . . . . #argentina #buenosaires #catedral #catedralmetropolitana #iglesiacatólica #iglesia #church #catholicchurch #mimiradaporteña #turismobuenosaires #traveler #travelbuenosaires #salidasgratis #gratuitos #gr...
amartebsas
2.1K likes • 66.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the city center. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Water & Sunscreen

Buenos Aires can get warm, especially when exploring Plaza de Mayo. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Get a SUBE Card

Essential for using the subte (metro) and buses. Recharge at kiosks. :credit_card:

Free Guided Tours

Inquire about free guided tours to learn more about the cathedral's history. :information_desk:

Check Organ Concerts

Enjoy free organ concerts on select Sundays. A unique musical experience! :musical_score:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Catedral Metropolitana for its stunning beauty, historical significance, and the moving presence of the Mausoleum of General San Martín. Many are impressed by the intricate architecture and the connection to Pope Francis. While generally a peaceful experience, some note it can get crowded, especially during events.

"Metropolitan cathedral Buenos. One of the most beautiful places on earth. I have seen people drawing, some praying, some capturing photos and some crying in worship.
It's beautiful. Love you Argentina from Bangladesh 🇧🇩"

Falah Galeeb

"Just adjacent to Plaza de Mayo is the most beautiful cathedral standing tall. the intricate designs beautiful stained glass Divine altar are the home to where the pope belonged it was overwhelming to enter the cathedral and see a lot of school children come there to visit the cathedral father Eduardo was continuously overlooking the activities in the cathedral it was very satisfying to see all the beautiful Creations in the cathedral very humbling experience a must visit when in Buenos Aires"

Dr.Mohina S Kulkarni

"One of Buenos Aires’ most iconic landmarks, this building houses the tomb of the great liberator José de San Martín. Majestic in scale, its architecture stands out from other colonial cathedrals in Latin America. Inside, you’ll find touches of Latin American-style baroque decoration. You’ll likely pass by it while exploring the city, and it’s well worth taking 15–20 minutes to step inside and visit."

Öner Buçukcu

What People Like

Majestic architecture
San Martín's tomb
Pope Francis connection

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Catedral Metropolitana is conveniently located in the city center, overlooking Plaza de Mayo in the San Nicolás neighborhood. You can easily reach it by public transport using the SUBE card for buses or the subte (metro). Several bus lines stop nearby, and the nearest subte stations are Plaza de Mayo (Line A, D, E) and Perú (Line A, E). Walking is also a great option if you're exploring the surrounding areas like Casa Rosada. TikTokReddit

Parking in the Plaza de Mayo area can be challenging due to its central location and popularity. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles. TikTok

The most efficient way to get around Buenos Aires is by using the SUBE card for both buses and the subte (metro). You can purchase and recharge this card at numerous kiosks throughout the city. This makes navigating to the Catedral Metropolitana and other attractions very straightforward. TikTokReddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Catedral Metropolitana Buenos Aires is generally free. It's a functioning church and a major historical landmark, welcoming visitors to explore its interior and admire its architecture. Instagram

The cathedral typically opens its doors from Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM. On Saturdays, hours are usually from 9 AM to 5 PM, and on Sundays and holidays, it's open from 9 AM to 6 PM (or 10 AM to 3 PM on holidays). It's always a good idea to check for any special event closures. Instagram

The Pope Francis Museum, located within the cathedral, is usually accessible as part of your free visit to the cathedral itself. There isn't typically a separate charge for this section. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the Catedral Metropolitana, especially for capturing its architectural beauty and historical significance. However, be respectful of ongoing services or prayer. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Mausoleum of General José de San Martín, a central and significant monument. Also, take time to admire the main altar, the intricate stained glass, and the side chapels, including the area dedicated to Pope Francis. The sheer scale and baroque decoration are breathtaking. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the Catedral Metropolitana often hosts free organ concerts, particularly on Sunday afternoons. These events are a wonderful way to experience the cathedral's acoustics and grandeur. Check local listings or the cathedral's schedule for upcoming performances. Instagram+1

While the main areas of the cathedral are generally accessible, some older structures can present challenges. It's advisable to contact the cathedral directly for specific accessibility information if you have mobility concerns. Reddit

A typical visit to the Catedral Metropolitana can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes if you're just quickly looking around. If you want to explore thoroughly, admire the details, and perhaps attend an organ concert, you might want to allocate an hour or more. Reddit

The Catedral Metropolitana is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires and holds historical importance as the former seat of Pope Francis. It's a National Historic Monument and a key landmark overlooking Plaza de Mayo. Reddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

The grand nave leading to the altar offers a stunning perspective. The Mausoleum of San Martín is also a powerful subject. Don't forget to capture the exterior architecture, especially with Plaza de Mayo in the foreground. The stained glass windows can also make for beautiful shots. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but it's important to be respectful of worshippers and any ongoing services. Avoid using flash photography, especially during ceremonies. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the nave and interior architecture. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be useful for low-light conditions inside. A tripod might be restricted, so be prepared to shoot handheld or use image stabilization. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Catedral Metropolitana offers a blend of history and grandeur that can engage older children. The Mausoleum of San Martín is a significant historical figure, and the sheer scale of the cathedral can be impressive. Consider timing your visit with a free organ concert, which can be a captivating experience for younger visitors. Instagram+1

Keep in mind that it's a place of worship, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is important. The surrounding Plaza de Mayo is a large open space where children can move around more freely before or after your visit to the cathedral. Reddit

⛪ Religious & History Buffs

For those interested in religious history and architecture, the Catedral Metropolitana is a must-visit. Its status as the mother church of the Archdiocese and its connection to Pope Francis make it a site of immense spiritual and historical importance. Reddit+1

Explore the various chapels, admire the baroque detailing, and learn about the life of General San Martín. The building itself is a National Historic Monument, offering a deep dive into Argentina's past and its Catholic heritage. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Catedral Metropolitana provides ample opportunities for stunning photography. The long nave, detailed altar, stained glass windows, and the imposing facade are all excellent subjects. The surrounding Plaza de Mayo also offers great vantage points for capturing the cathedral in its urban context. Reddit

Be mindful of lighting conditions inside, as natural light can be limited. A versatile lens, perhaps a wide-angle to capture the scale, will be beneficial. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid disruptive flash photography. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Pope Francis

The Catedral Metropolitana holds a special connection to Pope Francis, who served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires before his election to the papacy. Within the cathedral, you can find a dedicated museum or area that showcases his time in the city. This section often features personal items, photographs, and information about his pastoral work in Argentina, making it a significant draw for visitors interested in his life and legacy. Reddit

Many visitors find it a humbling experience to stand in a place where such a globally recognized figure once led services. It adds a layer of contemporary historical significance to the already ancient and revered cathedral, blending religious history with modern-day influence. Reddit

Exploring this part of the cathedral offers a unique glimpse into the early career of a beloved pontiff, connecting the grandeur of the historic building with a more personal and recent chapter of its story.

Architectural Marvels and Historical Significance

The Catedral Metropolitana Buenos Aires is a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and historical events. Originally established in the 17th century, it has undergone numerous transformations, resulting in its current neoclassical facade and Latin cross interior. The building is a declared National Historic Monument, reflecting its importance to Argentina's heritage. Reddit

Inside, the cathedral boasts a Latin cross layout with three aisles, connected by corridors and side chapels. The architecture is characterized by its majestic scale and touches of Latin American-style baroque decoration, creating a visually rich and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Intricate designs and beautiful stained glass windows further enhance its splendor, making it a popular spot for both religious devotion and appreciation of art and history. Reddit+1

Its prime location overlooking Plaza de Mayo places it at the heart of Buenos Aires' political and social history. It has witnessed countless significant events and served as a spiritual anchor for the city and the nation for generations. Reddit

Navigating Buenos Aires Public Transport

Getting around Buenos Aires, including reaching the Catedral Metropolitana, is made significantly easier with the SUBE card. This rechargeable card is your key to accessing the city's extensive network of buses (colectivos) and the subte (metro). You can purchase a SUBE card and top it up at numerous kiosks (kioscos) found throughout the city, making it a convenient and essential travel companion. TikTokReddit+1

The subte is an efficient way to cover longer distances and connect different neighborhoods. It's clean, relatively punctual, and covers most major tourist areas. Buses, while sometimes slower due to traffic, offer a more scenic route and can take you to places not directly served by the metro. Both are cost-effective options for exploring the city. TikTok

While walking is highly recommended for exploring areas like Plaza de Mayo and its surroundings, public transport is indispensable for covering more ground. Having a SUBE card ready ensures you can seamlessly hop on and off, maximizing your time and minimizing travel stress. TikTokReddit

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