Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar), Buenos Aires
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar in Buenos Aires' Recoleta neighborhood is a vital part of the Franciscan monastery. It was built through a collaborative effort led by architect Andrés Blanqui and finished by Juan Bautista Prímoli. This stunning basilica, devoted to Our Lady of the Pillar, was completed in 1732.
Architecturally, the exterior of the basilica is characterized by a modest yet elegant colonial design, boasting a whitewashed appearance. Inside, it holds a treasure trove of exquisite original altarpieces and decorative elements.
The Basilica was tied to the Recollects friar order, inspiring the Recoleta neighborhood's name. It was built on the city's edge, reflecting the order's solitude ideals. The funds for the basilica's construction were generously provided by a resident hailing from Zaragoza, Spain. This contribution came with the stipulation that the church be dedicated to the Virgin of the Pillar, a revered manifestation of the Virgin Mary closely associated with Zaragoza.
The architectural layout of the church features a single central nave intersected by a transept, its graceful curvature covered by a sail vault. Adjacent to the nave are shallow side chapels that add to the grandeur of the space. Of particular note is the baroque-style main altarpiece, a remarkable masterpiece adorned with Inca-inspired motifs and silver craftsmanship from Peru.
The stylistic elements of the pulpit and side altars also exhibit a distinct baroque influence. The intricate 18th-century woodwork is credited to the skilled sculptor Alonso Cano. Additionally, the altar housing relics is believed to have been a bestowed gift from King Carlos III of Spain.
Why You Should Visit:
There are lots of gold-leaf used inside to good effect and a gold Madonna on the altar which is the focal point.
On weekends the plaza in front fills with craft, art, and food stalls and becomes a popular marketplace.
Tip:
The historic cloisters are open at set times (check info board outside) and you will be asked for a small per-person donation to enter.
Monday - Friday: 7:30 am – 10:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm.
Architecturally, the exterior of the basilica is characterized by a modest yet elegant colonial design, boasting a whitewashed appearance. Inside, it holds a treasure trove of exquisite original altarpieces and decorative elements.
The Basilica was tied to the Recollects friar order, inspiring the Recoleta neighborhood's name. It was built on the city's edge, reflecting the order's solitude ideals. The funds for the basilica's construction were generously provided by a resident hailing from Zaragoza, Spain. This contribution came with the stipulation that the church be dedicated to the Virgin of the Pillar, a revered manifestation of the Virgin Mary closely associated with Zaragoza.
The architectural layout of the church features a single central nave intersected by a transept, its graceful curvature covered by a sail vault. Adjacent to the nave are shallow side chapels that add to the grandeur of the space. Of particular note is the baroque-style main altarpiece, a remarkable masterpiece adorned with Inca-inspired motifs and silver craftsmanship from Peru.
The stylistic elements of the pulpit and side altars also exhibit a distinct baroque influence. The intricate 18th-century woodwork is credited to the skilled sculptor Alonso Cano. Additionally, the altar housing relics is believed to have been a bestowed gift from King Carlos III of Spain.
Why You Should Visit:
There are lots of gold-leaf used inside to good effect and a gold Madonna on the altar which is the focal point.
On weekends the plaza in front fills with craft, art, and food stalls and becomes a popular marketplace.
Tip:
The historic cloisters are open at set times (check info board outside) and you will be asked for a small per-person donation to enter.
Monday - Friday: 7:30 am – 10:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Buenos Aires. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar) on Map
Sight Name: Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar)
Sight Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina (See walking tours in Buenos Aires)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina (See walking tours in Buenos Aires)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
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