Iglesia de Santa María del Rosario facts for kids
The Iglesia Parroquial de Santa María del Rosario is a beautiful old church located about 20 kilometers southeast of downtown Havana, Cuba. It's found in a place called Cotorro. This church is very special because of its long history and amazing art.
Contents
A Look Back: The Church's History
This church was built a long time ago, between 1760 and 1766. That means it's over 250 years old! A famous church leader, Bishop Espada, once called it "The Cathedral of the fields of Cuba." This shows how important and grand it was, even though it was in the countryside.
A National Treasure
The Iglesia Parroquial de Santa María del Rosario has been recognized as a National Monument not just once, but twice! It first received this special title in 1946 and then again in 1984. Being a National Monument means it's a very important historical place that needs to be protected.
The Amazing Altar
Inside the church, you'll find a truly stunning baroque altar. Baroque is a style of art that uses lots of fancy details and dramatic shapes. This altar is so beautiful that people say it's only comparable to another famous altar in the Church of Remedios. The altar in Santa María del Rosario is huge and still has its original Solomonic columns. These columns are twisted, like a corkscrew, and are covered in real gold!
Famous People Who Visited
Many important people have a connection to the Iglesia Parroquial de Santa María del Rosario.
Early Life Events
- Dr. Tomás Romay y Chacón: The very first Cuban scientist to graduate in medicine, Dr. Tomás Romay y Chacón, was baptized in this church in 1764. This was a big moment for him and for Cuban science.
- José María Chacón y Calvo: Another important person, José María Chacón y Calvo, was also baptized here. He was a famous expert in Spanish culture and history, known as a "hispanist." He was also the sixth Earl of House Bayona.
Special Occasions
- Alejo Carpentier: The well-known Cuban writer Alejo Carpentier chose this church for his wedding in the 1940s. It must have been a beautiful place for such a special day.
- Queen Sofía of Spain: In 1999, Queen Sofía of Spain herself visited the church. It's quite an honor for a church to host royalty!
See also
In Spanish: Parroquia de Santa María del Rosario (Cotorro) para niños
