Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The cathedral is a treasure trove of historical
riches, with Spanish mosaic floors, a barrel
vaulted ceiling and five naves of Renaissance
design that house priceless icons, sculptures
and religious relics. Most noteworthy are:
Visitors to the
church will not
be admitted if
they are wearing
shorts, mini-
skirts or other
clothing deemed
inappropriate by
the guards.
the Rococo-style main
altar
, made by
Isidro Lorea, one of the best carvers of
the colonial period;
the statue of
Santo Cristo de Bue-
nos Aires
, located on the left arm of
the transept, which is the oldest image
of Christ made in the River Plate, and
considered by some to be the most
beautiful in Buenos Aires;
and the
Virgin de los Dolores
(Vir-
gin of Grief), imported from Cádiz,
Spain in 1752.
The
Mausoleum of San Martín
is in the nave
to your right as you enter. Alongside the Gen-
eral's tomb are those of his generals and the
tomb of Argentina's Unknown Soldier. San
Martín's ashes are stored in a red marble vessel
at the foot of the monument dedicated to his
military feats. The Grenaderos guard this nave.
In the cupola, a depiction of the Inca Sun pays
homage to the Indian civilization that flour-
ished on the continent. The victory flag carried
by San Martín bears the name and image of
Buenos Aires patron saint, Martin of Tours.
This Hungarian saint lived, died and was later
canonized in France, his adopted country.
