Catedral Basílica Metropolitana de Medellín

The Catedral Basílica Metropolitana, also called the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, faces Parque de Bolívar in downtown Medellín. It was built between 1875 and 1931.

The structure has more than 1,120,000 fired bricks and is considered the largest fired-brick building in the Americas. It's Neo-Romanesque, with tall towers, stained glass and ornamental details.

Inside there's a collection of religious art and sculpture. It also hosts sacred music concerts and cultural events.

Parque de Bolívar has green areas and benches, and around it there are cafés, restaurants and traditional shops for every budget. From here you can walk on to the Museo de Antioquia, the Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe and Plaza Botero.

What to see

• The two towers, 66 meters tall to the cross.
• The Latin-cross floor plan, with three naves and the transept.
• The solid brickwork: about 1,120,000 bricks.
• Parque de Bolívar, out front.

Getting there

• Metro: Prado station (Line A) or routes C6009, C6010 and C6014 (Metro de Medellín).

Tips

• A good starting point for exploring downtown: the Museo de Antioquia, the Palacio de la Cultura and Plaza Botero are nearby.
• It's a working Catholic church: go in respectfully during services.