Capilla

The Capilla is a Roman Catholic basilica located in Maiquetía, Venezuela.

History

• Construction of the Capilla began in 1883, ordered by President Antonio Guzman Blanco, under the guidance of architect Juan Hurtado Manrique. The church was designed to emulate the Sainte Chapelle in Paris.
• The original hermitage of San Sebastián, built in 1568 and dedicated to Saint Maurice, was destroyed by an earthquake in 1667 and rebuilt with simple wooden and brick elements.
• In 1812, another earthquake nearly destroyed the church, prompting its reconstruction.
• In 1921, an expansion that included two aisles was made, and on August 5, 1926, it was designated as a Minor Basilica by Pope Pius XI.
• The basilica has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, with notable additions in 1979.

Architecture

The Capilla is built in the Gothic Revival style, reflecting its original design inspired by the Sainte Chapelle in Paris.

• The church features a striking façade, adorned with intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows.
• Its interior boasts ornate decorations, including frescoes and sculptures.
• Notable architectural features include the large rose window above the main entrance and the imposing bell tower that dominates the city's skyline.

Location

The Capilla is situated in the historic center of Maiquetía, Venezuela, on Distribuidor Macuto.

• The basilica serves as a prominent landmark in the city, standing at the corner of Santa Capilla on Avenida Urdaneta.

Religious Significance

As a Roman Catholic basilica, the Capilla plays an important role in the spiritual lives of its parishioners and visitors from across Venezuela.

• The church is dedicated to Saint Capilla, whose feast day is celebrated annually with festivities and devotions.

Organ and Bells

The Capilla features a pipe organ, which has been restored and maintained over the years to ensure its continued use for worship services and concerts.

• The basilica also boasts a collection of bells, including a large bell tower that serves as a prominent landmark in the city.

Heritage Status

In 1979, the Capilla was declared a National Historic Landmark by President Antonio Guzman Blanco's government.

• This designation recognizes the church's cultural and historical significance to Venezuela.

Visiting Information

The Capilla is open for worship services and guided tours. Visitors are welcome to explore the basilica's interior and admire its stunning architecture, including the rose window and bell tower.

• The Capilla is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing easy access to all areas of the church. Visitors can also park nearby in designated parking areas.

Notable Artworks or Relics

The Capilla houses several notable artworks and relics, including frescoes, sculptures, and sacred objects.

• These treasures are an integral part of the basilica's cultural heritage and contribute to its spiritual significance.

Accessibility

The Capilla is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing easy access to all areas of the church. Visitors can also park nearby in designated parking areas.

Organ and Bells

The Capilla features a pipe organ, which has been restored and maintained over the years to ensure its continued use for worship services and concerts.

Heritage Status

In 1979, the Capilla was declared a National Historic Landmark by President Antonio Guzman Blanco's government.

Visiting Information

The Capilla is open for worship services and guided tours. Visitors are welcome to explore the basilica's interior and admire its stunning architecture, including the rose window and bell tower.

Notable Artworks or Relics

The Capilla houses several notable artworks and relics, including frescoes, sculptures, and sacred objects.

Accessibility

The Capilla is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing easy access to all areas of the church. Visitors can also park nearby in designated parking areas.