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Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Lawrence

Bolivia·Santa Cruz de la Sierra

The Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Lawrence is the primary Catholic church in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, located in the city center. It has a history of rebuilding and alteration, with its current structure dating from the mid-19th century, notable for its eclectic style, wooden vaults, and preserved Jesuit mission artifacts.

Key Facts

  • The basilica is the main Catholic church in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia.
  • Its current structure was built in the eclectic style in 1838, designed by French architect Felipe Bertres.
  • The basilica is distinguished by its wooden vaults and their decorative paintings.
  • It houses part of the original carved silver coating from the Jesuit mission of San Pedro de Moxos.
  • Four sculptural reliefs from the same Jesuit mission are also displayed within the basilica.
Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Lawrence
Canonical Name
Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Lawrence
Architectural Style

Eclectic

Patron Saint
Notable Relics
  • Part of the Original Carved Silver Coating From the Jesuit Mission of San Pedro De Moxos
  • Four Sculptural Reliefs From the Jesuit Mission of San Pedro De Moxos
Century Built
19th century
Religious Order Affiliation

Mercedarian

Architects

Felipe Bertres

Status
active

About Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Lawrence

The Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Lawrence, also known as the Santa Cruz de la Sierra Cathedral, serves as the principal Catholic church in the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia. Its location is central, facing the 24 de Septiembre Square.

History and Architecture

The history of this site as a church begins with the first sanctuary built by Fray Diego de Porres, a Mercedarian friar. Significant alterations occurred in 1770 when Bishop Ramón de Herbosos oversaw a rebuilding, with Antonio Lombardo credited for his contributions. The current edifice, however, dates from 1838, commissioned during the era of Marshal Andrés de Santa Cruz. This structure was designed by the French architect Felipe Bertres and is characterized by its eclectic style. A notable feature of the basilica is its wooden vaults, which are adorned with extensive pictorial decoration. The main altar retains a portion of the original carved silver coating that once belonged to the Jesuit mission of San Pedro de Moxos. In addition to this, four sculptural reliefs originating from the same Jesuit mission are also preserved and exhibited within the cathedral.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Lawrence located?

The Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Lawrence is situated in the city center of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, directly opposite the 24 de Septiembre Square.

What is significant about the basilica's architecture?

The basilica is notable for its eclectic style, designed by French architect Felipe Bertres. It features distinctive wooden vaults adorned with pictorial decorations.

What historical artifacts are housed in the basilica?

The basilica contains part of the original carved silver coating from the Jesuit mission of San Pedro de Moxos. Additionally, four sculptural reliefs from the same mission are exhibited there.

When was the current church structure built?

The current church structure, replacing an older temple, was built in 1838 during the time of Marshal Andrés de Santa Cruz. It was designed by French architect Felipe Bertres.