Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de La Merced, Camaguey is one of the highly recommended tourist attractions in the city of Camaguey. It is an 18th century church built of bricks in baroque style. The city of Camaguey was founded in the 16th century and is one of the places where the Cuban culture flourished. The city is home to many architectural marvels, and sightseeing in the city is an enriching experience which you will not forget. Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de La Merced, Camaguey is one of the most important landmarks of the region.
Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de La Merced is a unique structure that was built in baroque style in 1601. Initially there was a chapel and the church was constructed in 1748. Legend has it that a figure appeared in the place which led to the church being constructed. A convent was added to the church in the 18th century. The church is a blend of different architectural styles. There are murals decorated in the art nouveau style in the ceiling.
The other noteworthy features in the church are the painted wood, the altar built in neo Gothic style and the sepulcher. There are catacombs buried beneath the church. There is a display of bones and skulls in the catacombs. Until 1814 the people were buried in the catacombs. Most of the underground cemetery was destroyed by a fire but six tombs covered with skeletons still remain. The rooms which are built around the patio are at the sides of the altar and were used as convents. These are still in use today. There is also a museum in the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de La Merced, Camaguey housing articles belonging to the 18th and 19th century.
Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de La Merced, Camaguey also contains a holy sepulcher. This is a unique silver coffin made from 23,000 silver coins all of which were donated by the followers. It is also home to an 18th century Christian statue built by a Mexican sculptor, Juan Benitez Alfonso.
For more information on Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de La Merced, Camaguey, visit travel.mapsofworld.
Mapxl.com is a business division of Compare Infobase Limited
Compare Infobase Limited C-62, Community Center, Janakpuri, New Delhi-58 (India) Tel: +91-11- 25542045, 41588013, 41588014 Hotline Nos. : +91-11- 41574999, 41574888, 41574890 You may contact between 08.00 to 20.00 hours IST Fax: + 91-11-25547264 Mobile: +91(0) 9871399025 contactus@mapsofworld.com
