The Catedral de la Virgen de Candelaria, theCopacabana Cathedral, is housed in a stunning 17th-century building and is hometo an impressive collection of European art. Pilgrims from all over the region comehere to see the famous Virgin Mary statue, experience religious ceremonies andattend lively Catholic festivals.
Admire the whitewashed Moor-style architecture, and photographthe columns, domes and ornamental ceramic tiles that adorn the façade. Step insidethe walled courtyard and see the chapels and religious figures carved in stoneand on the doors.
Enter the nave and immediately see at the head of thechurch, the ornate golden altarpiece with the statue of the Virgin of Candelaria,also called the Virgin of Copacabana, the patron saint of the town. Pilgrimsfrom all over the region come here to pay homage to this particular statue. Itfirst became renowned in the 1580s and is believed to give good luck. Thestatue is adorned with images, including the sun and moon and a silver ship atthe base.
Visit the small but informative Museo de la Catedral tosee displays of religious and European statues and other artworks. View thecollection of origami cranes that were given to the church by a Japanese womanwho asked to have a gifted child.
The cathedral celebrates a number of festivals throughthe year. Don’t miss the Bendicion de Movilidades (Car Blessing), where cars aredecorated with flowers and ribbons and given blessings of steadfastness. OnFebruary 2, watch traditional dance and listen to music for the annual Fiestade la Virgen de Candelaria. On Good Friday, observe the candle-carrying processionof pilgrims as they walk slowly from the cathedral to the peak of CerroCalvario to honour the suffering of Jesus. When at the top of the mountains,pilgrims ask priests for good fortune and forgiveness.
The Copacabana Cathedral is the main building on thePlaza 2 de Febrero. It is located in the town centre and is an easy walk fromCopacabana Beach and port. The cathedral and museum are free to enter and areopen daily.
