Matanzas Cathedral facts for kids
The Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo (in Spanish: Catedral de San Carlos Borromeo) is a beautiful Catholic church located in Matanzas, Cuba. It is a very important church because it is where the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Matanzas works and leads the local Catholic community. Think of it as the main church for the area.
Contents
History of the Cathedral
Building a New Church
The first stone for this church was placed on October 12, 1693. The first special church service, called a Mass, was led by the Bishop of Santiago, Diego Evelino Hurtado de Compostela.
The very first church building was quite simple. It was made from the leaves of the royal palm tree. Sadly, this first church was destroyed by a big storm.
After the storm, people started building the church you see today. The main building was finished in 1735. By 1750, all parts of the church were ready and in use.
Art and Restoration
The Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo is known for being very elegant. It has beautiful paintings, called frescoes, on its walls, ceilings, and inside its large dome.
Over many years, the church was not well cared for because there wasn't enough money. But in 2017, the cathedral was carefully fixed up and restored. Now it looks wonderful again!
Where to Find the Cathedral
The cathedral is located in the city of Matanzas, Cuba. It sits in the part of the city that is between two rivers, the Yumuri and San Juan.
It is only half a block away from a well-known spot called Parque de la Libertad (Freedom Park). It is also very close to the Palacio Provincial (Provincial Palace). You can find the cathedral on Jovellanos Street, between Milanes and Independence streets.
See also
In Spanish: Catedral de San Carlos Borromeo (Matanzas) para niños
- Religion in Cuba
