Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Sagrado Corazón, also known as the Church of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, is a remarkable and historic Roman Catholic church situated in the Buenos Aires neighborhood of Medellín. If you have an affinity for old and historic churches, this architectural gem is definitely worth a visit.
Built in a Neo-Gothic style, Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Sagrado Corazón is dedicated to the Virgin Mary under the invocation of the Sacred Heart. The church, also referred to as Iglesia de Buenos Aires, dates back to 1902 and boasts a rich history.
One of the most striking features of this church is its magnificent stained-glass windows, which allow colorful rays of light to filter into the interior, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. The church is adorned with various pieces of religious artwork, adding to its beauty and spiritual significance.
The History of the Church
In August 1902, the residents of Buenos Aires sought permission from Archbishop Joaquín Pardo Vergara to build a temple in their neighborhood. They affirmed that they had donated land for the church’s construction, and in September of the same year, their request was granted.
Archbishop Vergara blessed the first stone of the church in late 1902, symbolizing the commencement of the construction project. The architect Francisco Nevechi designed the church, and the land was generously donated by Mercedes Saldarriaga de Botero. Father Sabino Giraldo took charge of the construction in 1902, and later, Father Luis Gaviria oversaw its completion.
The construction of the church took nearly three decades to complete and finally, on August 12, 1931, Archbishop Manuel José Caycedo Martínez inaugurated and blessed the newly finished church, marking a significant milestone in its history.
The Religious Artworks and Architecture inside the Church
Upon entering Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Sagrado Corazón, you will be greeted by a beautiful interior adorned with white and green colors, complemented by delicate gold trim. The wooden pews, a common feature in Colombian churches, provide seating for visitors during religious services.
The church features a single longitudinal nave, intersected by a transverse nave that forms the arms of a cross. Throughout the church, you will find relatively simple stained-glass windows, which add to the ambiance and create an ethereal play of light and color. Numerous pieces of religious artwork, including several paintings, can be admired throughout the church. Like many other churches in the area, Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Sagrado Corazón provides confessionals on both the right and left sides, offering a space for spiritual reflection and penance.
Another highlight of the church is the presence of an organ located on the second floor. This instrument, which arrived in 1950, is a rarity among churches in Medellín and adds a unique musical element to the worship experience.
Getting There & Parking
To reach Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Sagrado Corazón, the most convenient option is to use the Medellín Metro. Take Line A and disembark at the San Antonio station in El Centro, then transfer to the tranvía tramcar line (Line T-A). The church is situated along Calle Ayacucho, adjacent to the tram line, between the Buenos Aires and Bicentenario tram stations
If you prefer a more direct and personalized mode of transportation, taking a taxi is a viable option. Taxis are widely available throughout the city, and you can hail one from your current location. When communicating with the driver, you can provide them with the address of the church and mention that it is located near the tramline. Using the name “Iglesia de Buenos Aires” will help as well. Taxis offer a convenient and efficient way to reach the church, especially if you have a group or prefer a door-to-door service.
Alternatively, you can utilize ride-sharing apps like Uber, which have gained popularity in Medellín. Simply download the Uber app on your smartphone, enter your pickup location, and set Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Sagrado Corazón as your destination. The app will connect you with a nearby driver who will transport you to the church safely and conveniently. Ride-sharing apps often provide estimated arrival times and upfront pricing, ensuring transparency and ease of use.
