Metropolitan Cathedral
Calle 11 No. 5-39, Cali, Valle del Cauca
Abutting the Plaza de Caicedo, the Metropolitan Cathedral is arguably Cali’s most important church, as it is the official seat of the city’s Roman Catholic Archdiocese. Construction of the cathedral began in 1772, although it was not completed until 1841, 69 years later, for political reasons. It was designated as a national monument in 1982.
The basics
Also known as the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle (Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol), Cali’s Metropolitan Cathedral was designed in the baroque and neoclassical styles. The white-stone exterior is impressive in and of itself, but it’s worth stepping inside to marvel at the even more ornate interior, which features an Italian marble altar and a collection of paintings from Quito. The cathedral is a staple of walking tours of Cali’s historical center, with other stops including the Plaza de Caicedo, La Ermita Church (Iglesia la Ermita), and the National Palace (Palacio Nacional).
Things to know before you go
The cathedral is a functioning place of worship, so be sure to remain quiet during your visit and wear respectful clothing.
It’s free to enter the Metropolitan Cathedral.
The cathedral is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to get there
The Metropolitan Cathedral is conveniently located in Cali’s historical center, on the edge of the bustling Plaza de Caicedo. The closest bus stop is Plaza de Cayzedo, which is serviced by buses E21, P24B, P27D, and P52D.
When to get there
The cathedral is open from early morning until early evening every day, and it holds regular mass and Sunday services. After dark, there’s a laser show projected onto the cathedral; during the holiday season, projections featuring religious iconography give the monument a festive feel.
Exploring Cali’s religious buildings
Cali boasts some of the most significant religious architecture in Colombia, with churches dating back to the 16th century. The city’s oldest is La Merced Church (Iglesia de la Merced), a whitewashed Catholic church built in 1545, while the grand and neo-Gothic La Ermita Church houses the famous Lord of the Sugarcane painting that’s survived multiple earthquakes.
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