Caracas Cathedral

The Caracas Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Anne, is the spiritual heart of the city and a testament to its colonial architectural heritage. The current structure was built between 1665 and 1674 following the devastating 1641 earthquake that leveled the previous church. Designed in the Spanish colonial baroque style, the cathedral features a grand yet sober facade and a prominent bell tower that has served as a landmark for centuries. The interior is divided into five naves and houses several ornate chapels, most notably the Chapel of the Holy Trinity, which contains the tombs of Simón Bolívar's parents and his wife. Bolívar himself was baptized in this cathedral, adding to its immense national significance. Throughout its history, the building has endured multiple seismic events and numerous renovations, yet it retains its authentic 17th-century atmosphere. Located on the eastern side of Plaza Bolívar, the cathedral remains an active center of worship and a key destination for those exploring Venezuela's religious and revolutionary history. It was officially declared a National Historic Monument in 1957, preserving its legacy for future generations.

Nearby cities

Caracas

The capital of Venezuela is the political and economic center of the country.

History & landmarks

Museum of Sacred Art

The museum houses a significant collection of religious art from the colonial period.

Municipal Palace of Caracas

A historic government building in Plaza Bolívar, housing the city administration of Caracas.

Carmelitas Post Office

A striking building in downtown Caracas, known for its elegant neoclassical facade.

Palace of the Academies

A magnificent neo-Gothic building that houses the national academies of Venezuela.

National Theater of Caracas

A beautiful historic theater known for its performances of zarzuela and operettas.

Lira Art Center

A contemporary cultural center providing space for various art forms and local exhibitions.

El Silencio Towers

Two iconic twin towers in the center of Caracas, symbolizing the city's 20th-century modernization.

Municipal Theater of Caracas

A magnificent historic opera house, counted among the oldest theaters in South America.

More places

Casa del Vínculo

A recently restored house in Caracas where Bolívar lived during the early years of his marriage.

Yellow House of Caracas

The historic yellow building was once a royal prison and later the presidential palace.

Birthplace of Simón Bolívar

This colonial house is the birthplace of the famous South American liberator Simón Bolívar.

Convent of San Francisco

A historic convent in Caracas where Simón Bolívar was formally proclaimed Liberator in 1813.

National Pantheon of Venezuela

The National Pantheon is the final resting place of Venezuelan national heroes, including Simón Bolívar.

Mountain Barracks (Cuartel de la Montaña)

A striking military building that plays an important role in modern Venezuelan history.

Quinta de Anauco

This beautiful colonial estate now houses the Museum of Colonial Art in Caracas.

Casona Ibarra

A charming historic hacienda from the 18th century, located within the Central University grounds.