Six Churches to Visit in Cali During Lent - Spiwak Hotels

Beyond its unique dance styles, parties, festivals, and the beauty of its people, our city hides many other fascinating facets... The abundance of churches in Cali offers a glimpse into the deep faith of our community and serves as a major draw for our most devoted visitors.

Religious tourism in Cali is yet another activity that brings travelers to our "Branch of Heaven"—whether to fulfill a vow or simply to discover our rich architectural heritage.

To help you explore our regional capital, Spiwak Hotels has put together a recommended itinerary of six churches to visit in order during Lent:





Reconstructed in 1942, this Gothic-inspired church closely resembles the Ulm Cathedral in Germany. This landmark is considered one of the defining symbols of the Sultana del Valle, frequently featured in photographs and postcards.

Located right at the start of the Bulevar del Río Cali, visiting it gives you the chance to enjoy a favorite local tradition known as borondear—strolling and visiting various establishments while trying local snacks, all accompanied by the refreshing breeze typical of the area.

Inside La Ermita, you can admire stained-glass windows dedicated to the apostles and the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows.

Address: Corner of Carrera 1A and Calle 13, Bulevar del Río.
Phone: (602) 8892309

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La Ermita Church



San Pedro Cathedral is one of the most important churches in Cali. Standing proudly in Plaza Cayzedo (historically known as the Plaza Mayor), it is right in the heart of the city's commercial and entertainment hub.

Construction began in 1539, featuring a Baroque architectural style. It once housed the city’s first public clock, which operated until 1934. It was declared a National Historic Monument of Colombia on March 12, 1982.

Today, the church is renowned for its neoclassical aesthetics and serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Cali.

Address: Calle 11 # 5-39, Comuna 3
Phone: (602) 8811378

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San Pedro Apóstol Metropolitan Cathedral




Run by the Franciscan community in Cali, this complex is located right in downtown and consists of the Convent of San Joaquín and the Chapel of the Inmaculada (completed in 1764), the Mudejar Tower, the Church of San Francisco, and a museum of religious art.

Its architecture is attributed to a freed Moorish craftsman who arrived from overseas (suing for the hand of a local woman by vowing to convert to Catholicism). The complex as a whole is a unique blend of neoclassical elements and Mudejar style.

Its 23-meter-tall bell tower has been described by historian Santiago Sebastián as the most beautiful Mudejar tower in the Americas. We recommend visiting in the morning to admire the color of its facade and enjoy the Cali breeze.

Address: Calle 9, #5-59. Comuna 3
Phone: (602) 8842498

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San Francisco Religious Complex




Built in 1541, this is the city's oldest church and a prime example of colonial architecture.

It houses the Virgin of the Rosary who, according to local lore, mysteriously vanished from the temple twice and reappeared deep within the Western Cordillera. There, indigenous communities living in the area christened her "The Queen of the Mountain."

Legend has it that the Virgin began granting favors to those who prayed to her. To prevent her from returning to the mountains, she was given her own altar, guarded and venerated by two wooden carvings of indigenous figures.

The adjacent Archaeological Museum features a fascinating exhibition of pre-Hispanic pottery from southwestern Colombia.

Address: Carrera 3 #6-62, Comuna 3.
Phone: (602) 8892309

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La Merced Archaeological and Religious Complex




At 273 years old, this is the second-oldest chapel in Cali. It forms part of an urban trio situated in the traditional San Antonio neighborhood, specifically atop San Antonio Hill, and is named after Saint Anthony of Padua.

It features three architectural styles: Baroque in the interior altar, Mudejar in the arches and entrance, and colonial in its gabled roof, clay tiles, and overall building materials.

Legend says that Manuela Josefa Bolívar, the only recognized daughter of Simón Bolívar, was baptized in this chapel in 1829. It is worth visiting in the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife of this bohemian neighborhood, filled with restaurants, bars, theaters, and cafes.

Address: Carrera 10, Esquina Calle 1 oeste #SN. San Antonio.
Phone: 317 5236589

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San Antonio Chapel




Designed with a modern Brazilian architectural influence, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima was founded 55 years ago at the foot of the Tres Cruces hill. It is one of the most frequented churches by the faithful, who attribute countless miracles to it.

Many locals believe that attending its services seven times will guarantee the fulfillment of whatever grace you pray for.

Address: Avenida 10N # 15A-25. Granada.
Phone: (602) 6676207

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Our Lady of Fatima Sanctuary



To make the most of this tour, we recommend keeping these tips in mind:

• Start the tour in the morning and follow the suggested order to make the most of your day.


• Wear comfortable, fresh, light-colored clothing, walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.


• Bring a small backpack or bag with a hydrating drink.


• Leave unnecessary valuables at home.


• Book a trusted driver and arrange pickup times and locations in advance.

Come spend Lent in Cali with Spiwak Hotels. We look forward to welcoming you!

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Spiwak Hotels: Your best accommodation choice in Cali. Conveniently located in northern Cali, near the Chipichape luxury shopping mall, with easy access to Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport.

 Featuring 462 rooms, two swimming pools, a gym, and access to all essential services and entertainment: banking area, supermarket, pharmacies, retail stores, cinema, casino, and much more. We are the largest hotel complex in Valle del Cauca!

*** Por: Tzeitel Topel ***