Basílica Nuestra Señora del Pilar

Beside Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires, the Basílica Nuestra Señora del Pilar is an early-18th-century church with a restrained colonial exterior and carefully preserved Baroque altars. Step inside to see the gilded decoration, religious artwork and a silver altar; the museum upstairs and at the rear holds religious objects and historical documents. Its quiet interior makes a calm pause between visits to the cemetery and nearby plazas. The museum also gives a view of the cemetery through its gridded windows.

A colonial church beside Recoleta Cemetery

The basilica stands beside Recoleta Cemetery, in a part of Buenos Aires where the church, cemetery and nearby plazas can be visited together. Franciscan Recoleta monks built it in the early 18th century. It began as a church connected with a Franciscan convent outside the city.

Its plain white exterior and simple arches reflect the restrained colonial style. Many churches in the city later gained richer decoration or were damaged during political conflicts; the Pilar kept much of its colonial character. The bell tower is an easy detail to spot from outside.

Altars and the church museum

Inside, look for the Baroque wooden altars, gilded details and religious paintings. The silver altar has engraved decoration with indigenous American motifs. Another altar contains relics and was sent by Spain’s King Carlos III. The church also has statues, including figures of Jesus praying at Gethsemane and Franciscan friars.

A small museum occupies the rear and upper parts of the basilica. Its collection includes religious art, objects and historical documents, along with church books. From the museum, you can look toward Recoleta Cemetery through gridded windows. The museum charges an entrance fee; the church itself is described as free to enter.