Metropolitan Cathedral, San Salvador (must see)

The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Holy Savior is the principal church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Salvador and the seat of the Archbishop. The cathedral holds deep significance for the Salvadoran people, having been twice visited by Pope John Paul II, who remarked on its close connection with the nation's joys and hopes. The site where the cathedral now stands was once home to the old Temple of Santo Domingo. It bears a poignant history, particularly marked by the tragic events of Palm Sunday, March 31, 1980, when 44 people were killed during the funeral of Archbishop Romero due to gunfire on the worshipers and the funeral cortege. This event left an indelible mark on the cathedral's legacy.

The square in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral also witnessed the euphoric celebrations following the signing of the Chapultepec Peace Accords in 1992, which ended the Salvadoran Civil War. The current cathedral structure was completed and inaugurated on March 19, 1999. Its festive tiled facade, designed by Salvadoran master Fernando Llort, adds a vibrant and colorful touch to the building, reflecting the cultural and artistic heritage of El Salvador.

Inside the cathedral, the main altar is a focal point, featuring an image of the Divine Saviour of the World, sculpted by Friar Francisco Silvestre García in 1777. This image, donated by Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in 1546, rests on a four-column baldacchino surrounded by statues of the prophets Moses and Elijah, who are integral to the Transfiguration story. The main altar is further adorned with eight large paintings depicting scenes from the life of Christ, created by Andrés García Ibáñez, adding to the cathedral's artistic and spiritual ambiance.

Crowning the cathedral is a bright Churrigueresque cupola, enhancing the grandeur of the structure. The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Holy Savior stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and hope for the Salvadoran people, embodying both their historical struggles and their enduring spirit. Visitors and worshipers alike are drawn to its rich history, artistic beauty, and the profound sense of community it represents.