Churches of San Jose

Catedral Metropolitana (Metropolitan Cathedral)

The Cathedral, located on Calle Central between 2nd and 4th Avenues, is one of downtown San Jose’s most important landmarks. The Cathedral's neoclassic architecture is heavily influenced by the European Renaissance, though traditional Costa Rican flourishes can be found throughout.

In 1821, an earthquake destroyed the first Cathedral; the current structure was rebuilt in its image in 1871. The adjacent Archbishop's Palace dates from the 18th century, and is one of the few remaining colonial structures in San Jose. The church's small side chapel, called the Chapel of the Holiest Sacrament, is decorated with intricate carvings.

Pope John Paul II visited the Metropolitan Cathedral in 1983, and his visit is commemorated by a marble plaque. Today, mass is held 6 a.m.-noon and 3 p.m.-6 p.m. on Monday-Saturday, and Sundays from 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

 

Catedral Metropolitana Front View

La Iglesia de la Soledad (The Soledad Church)

This pretty church is located at the intersection of 4th Avenue and Calle 9, fronting Paseo de los Estudiantes (Student’s Walk). It dates back to 1909, and houses beautiful bells and an organ that are of the same age. The church's prized possession is its colorful stained glass windows, which were imported from Switzerland. 

Front View of the Soledad Church

 La Merced Church

The church's Gothic architecture shows both neoclassical and colonial touches, and is the oldest in San Jose. Located on Calle 12 between 2nd and 4th Avenues, it was designed by Lesmes Jimenez Bonnefil, and boasts arched windows, a beautiful wood ceiling and ornate spires. Inside, the church houses paintings from famous artist, Manuel Zuniga.

In 2002, the Ministry of Culture approved approximately $1 million for repairs of the church's northern nave. Renovations were nearing completion at the end of 2008.

Church of La Dolorosa

Located on Calle Central between 10th and 12th Avenues, this small church is a copy of Puerto Rico's San Juan Cathedral. Built in the neo-baroque style, it boasts soaring arches and double columns, in addition to religious statues and a unique clock.
 

El Carmen Church

This small church, located at the intersection of Central Avenue and Calle 3, greets visitors with three arched entrances and large, double pilasters. The land beneath was owned by siblings Geronima and Maria Concepcion Quiros y Castro, and was once occupied by a church building built in 1841.
 

Santa Teresita Church

Built in the 1930's, this small church graces the intersection of 9th Avenue and Calle 29. The interior is framed by a large, black dome and four columns.
 

Templo Biblico (Biblical Temple)

Though it may not look like a religious structure, this light salmon-colored temple was built in the neoclassical style. The building is prized for its architectural details, including large, rectangular windows, pilasters and friezes with triglyphs. The historical temple is located on Calle 6 between 2nd and 4th Avenues.