Construction began on the Matriz Church as far back as 1680, making it one of the oldest churches in Uruguay. European settlers arrived in the area and created this striking religious structure. Although it has been completely rebuilt on two occasions, locals still consider it the most ancient church in the country.
Admire the view of the whitewashed façade from the Plaza de Armas. The church has a pair of twin towers on either side of a gray pediment. On the left tower is a clock. Guides are usually available to take you on a tour. Learn about the church’s past under both Portuguese and Spanish rules. This is reflected in the blend of architectural styles.
Explore the elegant interior, which contains two tombs of former vicars. Appreciate the building’s thick walls with artistic carvings.
Take a walk around the Plaza de Armas to see the antique Portuguese house that dates back many centuries. The square is a popular place to sit with a book or a picnic among the trees and bushes.
The site was initially built from crude elements, such as mud and straw. At the turn of the 18th century, it was rebuilt with limestone. In the 1800s, evolutionary theorist Charles Darwin visited the church, describing it as a “curious ruin.”
The church is officially named the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento. Admission is free.
Matriz Church sits on the tree-lined Plaza de Armas in the historic center of Colonia del Sacramento, one block north of the main square, Plaza Mayor. It is about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) northwest from the ferry terminal, which brings passengers from Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires, and the main bus stop of the city. Visit nearby attractions including the Casa Nacarello, the lighthouse and the Convent of San Francisco Ruins.
