Let’s take a look outside the city of Zipaquirá and under a halite mountain to see the Underground Salt Cathedral. To fully discover one of the most famous Catholic sanctuaries in Colombia, we have to go about 200 meters underground.
But how was the Underground Salt Cathedral built?
It was around 1932 that workers who were working in the salt mine began to build a place deep in the mine for daily worship. The cathedral was eventually opened to the public in 1954.
Years later, in 1990, the church closed because the mine was not perfectly safe for those supposed to work there. However, that was not the end of the Underground Salt Cathedral. In 1991, the construction of a new church below the previous church began with greater safety, resulting in a stunning church whose architecture and artistic beauty amaze many tourists.
The first thing that catches your eye or most likely your nose when you step on the Underground Salt Cathedral is the smell of sulfur. As you progress, you will see religious icons and crosses and their reflection of light inside the mine that has multiplied their beauty. Finally, if you go to the lowest part of the mine, you will reach the three famous naves of the Underground Salt Cathedral, which show the birth, life, and death of the Christian prophet. Surely, after visiting the Underground Salt Cathedral, you will understand why it is called the jewel of modern architecture.
Around the Salt Cathedral
The site is simply stunning, and it was called Colombia’s First Wonder due to its amazing architecture. Visitors walk along the dim pathways accented by fluorescent lighting, creating an atmospheric experience.
The Stations of the Cross, which line the route leading to the main cathedral, are sculptural depictions of Jesus bearing the cross to his crucifixion and death place. There are also some places where you can walk off the road and into the stone chapel.
Photo by Jimmy Baikovicius via Flickr
What’s Outside?
If you’re traveling with family and a kid with you, there are some outdoor activities to keep them happy while resting and waiting for the next visit. Food shops, a playground, a climbing wall, and a labyrinth help you make a plan for the children. Visitors will also board a small train that will carry them from the cathedral into Zipaquira. This gives the visitors of the salt cathedral the chance of spending time outside the cathedral.
Inside the Mine
The tour inside the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral is a sixty-minute tour or in other words, it’s an unforgettable experience for those who are into whatever looks pretty! Every year, a lot of couples aim to get married in this fantasy place.
There is a tour there called the miner’s tour. During this tour, a guide helps your experience the life of a miner. You will find yourself in a new position as a hard-working man under the ground. Give this thirty-minute tour a shot to fully enjoy your visit.
How to Get to the Underground Salt Cathedral?
The best way to visit the Underground Salt Cathedral is to take the bus. However, you can also use the more expensive and convenient way, the taxi.
Photo by Belinda Grasnick via Flickr
Opening Hours
The opening hours of the underground salt cathedral are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you need to make sure about the timing and rates, you might visit their Website.
