Cathedral of Córdoba

The Cathedral of Córdoba is the oldest church in continuous service in Argentina, and was declared a National Historic Monument in 1941.

History of the Cathedral of Córdoba

Not to be confused with the cathedral in the Spanish city, building works for the original Cathedral of Córdoba began in the late 1500s. Constructed by largely indigenous labourers, the early cathedral was planned by the architect Nicolás de Dios, public works director Gregorio Ferreira and master mason Juan Rodríguez.

The original building suffered significantly after a collapse in 1677. The church that followed was planned based on the outline of the Jesuit Church of the Gesù in Rome, in the shape of a Latin cross. Though unfinished, it was inaugurated in 1709 before future embellishments were incorporated into the structure.

These included the cupola, Spanish Baroque façade, and the Neoclassical portico. The Italian architect Andrea Blanqui was involved in these works in the early 18th century. He designed numerous churches in contemporary Argentina.

Prominent historical figures from the province of Córdoba and the country of Argentina have been buried in the cathedral. They include the Argentine military figure, General José María Paz (1791-1854), who participated in the Argentine War of Independence and the Argentine Civil War, as well as his wife.

The clergyman Gregorio Funes (1749-1829) and Bishops of Córdoba Mamerto Esquiú (1826-1883) and Hernando de Trejo y Sanabria (1547-1614) are also buried in the cathedral. These burials are situated in the narthex of the cathedral and adjacent crypts.

The interior walls of the cathedral were decorated with murals and frescoes in the early 20th century. The cathedral also features a sterling silver altar from Colonial Peru and a church tabernacle that was donated in 1804.

Cathedral of Córdoba today

The Cathedral of Córdoba is the central church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Córdoba. It is one of many historical monuments preserved from Spanish colonial rule. Its location in the heart of the city provides for a moment of peace and quiet.

Getting to the Cathedral of Córdoba

Located on the central square of Plaza San Martin, the Cathedral of Córdoba is easy to access and in striking distance of restaurants and other Córdoba sights. Time your visit carefully as the cathedral is not open throughout the day.