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Catedral San Mateo: Osorno's Neo-Gothic Masterpiece

A neo-Gothic architectural gem in Osorno's Plaza de Armas, Catedral San Mateo stands as a symbol of faith and resilience.

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The Catedral San Mateo, a striking neo-Gothic cathedral, stands proudly on the Plaza de Armas in Osorno, Chile. Rebuilt after the devastating 1960 earthquake, it is a symbol of the city's resilience and a testament to its rich architectural and religious heritage. Its towering spire and intricate design make it a must-see landmark for visitors.

A brief summary to Catedral San Mateo

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the colorful stained-glass windows and the natural light illuminating the interior.
  • Take a walk around the Plaza de Armas after your visit to enjoy the heart of Osorno.
  • Check the cathedral's official website or local listings for mass schedules and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Osorno, such as the Museo Histórico Municipal de Osorno, the Catedral San Mateo is easily accessible by foot. Head east along Calle Bilbao towards the Plaza de Armas. The cathedral is located on the north side of the plaza. The walk is short and straightforward.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses (micros) circulate throughout Osorno. Check local bus routes for any that stop near the Plaza de Armas. From the Terminal de Buses de Osorno, several bus lines will drop you off within a few blocks of the Plaza de Armas. A single bus fare typically costs around 500 CLP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Osorno. A short taxi ride from the Osorno bus terminal to the Catedral San Mateo will cost approximately 1,000 CLP. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Uber is also available in Osorno, with local taxi drivers potentially fulfilling UberX requests.

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Discover more about Catedral San Mateo

Catedral San Mateo is the main Catholic church in Osorno, Chile, and an architectural and spiritual icon for the city. The first church dedicated to San Mateo Apóstol (Saint Matthew the Apostle) was built in 1577 next to the Plaza de Armas. That original structure was replaced four times, each succumbing to earthquakes and fires. The 1960 earthquake demolished the existing building. The current cathedral was designed by architect León Prieto Casanova in the neo-Gothic style. Construction began in 1962, and the new temple was consecrated on November 24, 1977. Work on the tower began on January 18, 1982, and was completed in September of the same year. The tower reaches 45 meters in height and is visible from many points in the city. Inside, the cathedral features three naves separated by pointed arches, stained glass windows from Spain, and wooden floors. The remains of Monsignor Francisco Valdés Subercaseaux, the first bishop of Osorno, are preserved inside. The cathedral was awarded the Bicentennial Work Prize 1960 - 2008, recognizing it as one of the urban landmarks of the last fifty years because of its characteristics and impact.

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