Welcome to Barranquilla, Colombia, where you will find the striking Queen Mary Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana María Reina de Barranquilla). Located in the central area of the city on the western side of Plaza de la Paz, this cathedral sits right at Barranquilla’s official zero point. As the seat of the Archbishop for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Barranquilla, it is an essential spiritual center dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
When you visit, you will witness a masterpiece of modernist architecture that took 27 years to construct. Originally designed by Italian architect Angelo Mazzoni Grande and later redesigned and built by the Antiochian firm Vasquez and Cardenas, the cathedral showcases a unique design spanning 4,274 square meters of built area. As you step inside, notice the unique bell-shaped layout that gently tapers toward the apse of the presbytery.
Reaching an impressive height of 38 meters at its top and stretching 92 meters in length, the vast interior accommodates 4,000 seated people. Whether you are admiring its modern aesthetic from Peace's Square or exploring its expansive presbytery, this landmark offers a fascinating look at the city's modern architectural heritage and central Catholic traditions.
What to see at Queen Mary Cathedral, Barranquilla
- Modernist architecture designed by Italian architect Angelo Mazzoni Grande
- Distinctive bell-shaped floor plan tapering at the presbytery apse
- Spacious interior covering 4,274 square meters with seating for 4,000
- Location at the city's zero point on Plaza de la Paz
Visiting tips
Combine your visit with a walk through central Plaza de la Paz, as the cathedral sits directly on its western side at the city's zero point.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Queen Mary Cathedral, Barranquilla is easy to reach on Barranquilla’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Pumarejo bridge. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Barranquilla travel guide.
See the full Barranquilla travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.