The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary is the neo-Gothic church on the south side of Plaza de Bolívar in Manizales, Colombia. Its central tower rises over 100 meters, and it can be seen from much of the city. The main reasons to visit are the stained glass windows inside, which cover about 9,150 square feet, and the guided tour that climbs the tower to a viewpoint over the city and the mountains around it. You can see the windows without buying a tour ticket.
Plaza de Bolívar and the cathedral's construction
The cathedral closes the south side of Plaza de Bolívar, the historic square at Carrera 22 and Calle 21. The square also adjoins the Caldas government building and the Palace of Justice, and it hosts festivals and events through the year.
Work on the cathedral began in 1929. It is built of reinforced concrete and is among the first churches of that construction type in Latin America. The building was completed in 1939.
Inside the church
The stained glass is the main feature. The windows cover about 9,150 square feet, and they are the reason many visitors step inside even without taking the tour.
The interior also holds paintings, sculptures and a marble baptismal font. An elaborate gold canopy adds to the decoration. On an ordinary day the church is quiet, but weddings and other ceremonies also take place here, so a visit during a service calls for quiet respect.
The tower tour
Access to the upper levels is by guided tour, which takes about 75 minutes. The route climbs roughly 400 steps: narrow winding stairs, a passage onto the roof, then a spiral staircase to a viewpoint just below the top of the spire.
An elevator also goes to a higher floor, which has a better view of the plaza. The tower views cover the city, the valleys and the mountains beyond, including Nevado del Ruiz on clear days.
The second-floor cafe
The cafe on the second floor overlooks the square. It serves coffee prepared in around twenty ways, along with desserts and snacks. Service can be uneven, so allow extra time, and try to get a seat by the glass for the view of the plaza.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee?
You can enter the church and see the stained glass windows without paying. The guided tour, which includes the tower climb, is a separate paid ticket.
How long does the tour take?
The guided tour takes about 75 minutes. It includes around 400 steps to the viewpoint near the top of the spire.
Is the tower suitable for people afraid of heights?
Not really. The climb has narrow winding stairs and a spiral staircase near the top, and it is not suited to people who are afraid of heights.
Is the cathedral wheelchair accessible?
The entrance is wheelchair accessible. The tower route involves many steps, so it is not an option for visitors who cannot climb stairs.
