St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral, Maracaibo

Welcome to Maracaibo, Venezuela, where you can explore the St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral, also known simply as the Maracaibo Cathedral.

As the main church of the city and Zulia state, this important site serves as the headquarters for all churches within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Maracaibo and stands as a repository of its deep history and traditions. Situated right in Bolivar Square, the historic heart of the city, you will discover a remarkable landmark. Constructed between 1585 and 1650 during the seventeenth century, the building features a neoclassical colonial style that is completely unique to Maracaibo, with very few structures of its kind existing anywhere in Latin America.

Pope Leo XIII officially designated it as a cathedral on July 25, 1897, making it the official seat of the archdiocese alongside the Archbishop's Palace. While visiting, you will appreciate its long heritage and resilience, even after a cathedral tower was struck by a series of earthquakes in Zulia state in September 2025. If you want to connect with the city's historical core and distinctive architectural heritage, visiting this cathedral in Bolivar Square is an essential stop.

What to see at St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral, Maracaibo

• Located in Bolivar Square, the historic heart of Maracaibo
• Features a rare neoclassical colonial architectural style
• Designated as a cathedral by Pope Leo XIII in 1897
• Serves as the seat of the Archdiocese alongside the Archbishop's Palace
• Historic structure constructed between 1585 and 1650

Visiting tips

Take time to admire the unique neoclassical colonial architecture while exploring the surrounding historic core of Bolivar Square.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral, Maracaibo is easy to reach on Maracaibo’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Baralt Theatre. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Maracaibo travel guide.