Iglesia de la Virgen de la Soledad | Popayan

Information

Landmark: Iglesia de la Virgen de la Soledad
City: Popayan
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Iglesia de la Virgen de la Soledad, Popayan, Colombia, South America

The Iglesia de la Virgen de la Soledad is a religious structure located in Popayán, Colombia.

This church is characterized by its white facade and a single bell tower. Constructed primarily from stone and stucco, it exhibits a colonial architectural style. The building's dimensions are approximately 25 meters in length and 12 meters in width, with the tower reaching a height of 18 meters.

Location & Access Logistics

The church is situated in the historic center of Popayán, approximately 1 kilometer south of the main plaza (Parque Caldas). Access is via Calle 5. Limited street parking is available in the surrounding blocks. No direct public transport routes serve the immediate vicinity; however, several bus lines terminate within a 500-meter radius, requiring a short walk.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Iglesia de la Virgen de la Soledad began in 1735 and was completed in 1740. It was commissioned by the local clergy to serve as a parish church dedicated to the Virgin of Solitude. The architect is not definitively recorded, but it is attributed to local master builders of the period.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the church's interior, which features colonial-era religious art and a central altar. The exterior architecture is also a point of interest. Photography of the facade is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not available on-site. There is no dedicated shade within the immediate vicinity of the church. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this urban area. Food vendors are located along nearby streets, particularly on Calle 5.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting conditions for photography, the late afternoon (between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM) provides direct sunlight on the facade. The best months for visiting are generally from December to March, which constitute the drier season in Popayán.

Facts & Legends

A local account suggests that during the 1834 earthquake, the church bell rang continuously for three days without human intervention, an event attributed to divine protection.