Thursday, April 21, 2011

La Candelaria's Churches

Crowds leaving the 400-year-old San Francisco Church.
During Easter Week, Bogotanos visit La Candelaria's many churches, lining up to enter each one to pray.

When the Spanish colonized Latin America, spreading Catholicism was one of their justifications. As a result, La Candelaria is full of centuries-old churches, including three right alongside each other on Seventh Ave, just north of La Jimenez.

Naturally, the event becomes a mixture of religious devotion, street fair and public market - even with a drizzle.

Praying outside the Iglesia de la Veracruz.
A man begs from those waiting to enter La Vera Cruz Church.

Candles and prayers for sale.

The Cathedral, on Plaza Bolivar

Selling prayers, incense...and something more secular.

Interior of The Cathedral

The much plainer La Veracruz church

Las Aguas Church, on La Jimenez Ave. 

La Candelaria Church

A mime entertaining across from La Veracruz.

Wet worshippers.

Rosary beads.

Pray for a sunny day. Religious CDs and umbrellas. 
In front of San Francisco church, a man announces the end of the Bible.

The weathered wall of San Francisco Church.

A military parade past La Catedral de Bogotá.
La Catedral caught in the sun. 
By Mike Ceaser, of Bogotá Bike Tours

1 comment:

Zebra said...

The church in Bogota dedicated to Our Lady of Candelaria has undergone several modifications over the years. The west tower was added to the structure around 1846 and the east tower was raised in 1915.
Inside the church are paintings by Gregorio Vásquez (1638-1711), the most famous Colombian artist of the colonial period. He was born and died in the same house at Calle 11 No. 3-99, in the same block as the Iglesia de la Candelaria.

The church is very fascinating, beautiful architect...very spiritual and peaceful visit...must see!!

Josefina Argüello - Bogota Tours