There’s a cathedral in Colombia carved entirely out of salt: what it is and how to visit

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is an extraordinary feat of architecture, entirely carved out within a salt mine. This underground masterpiece draws visitors from around the globe, captivated by its history, stunning beauty, and spiritual resonance.

Let’s delve into the story of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá and find out how to visit this remarkable site.

Where is the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá?

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is located in the city of the same name, in the department of Cundinamarca, approximately 50 kilometres north of Colombia’s capital, Bogotá. As well as being home to this remarkable underground structure, Zipaquirá is also renowned for its beautifully preserved historic centre, distinguished by colonial-era buildings and cobbled streets.

Situated at an altitude of around 2,650 metres above sea level, the city lies within the region known as the “Bogotá Savanna”. Its strategic location makes it a popular choice for a day trip from the capital, aided by a range of convenient transport options.

The history of the Salt Cathedral

The origins of the Salt Cathedral are closely tied to the mining activity that has shaped the region since pre-Columbian times. The area of Zipaquirá was once inhabited by the Muisca, an indigenous people who extracted salt from natural deposits and used it as a valuable trade commodity. Over the centuries, salt mining became increasingly significant, eventually emerging as one of the region’s principal economic drivers.

In the 20th century, miners working deep underground began to feel the need for a place of worship, a space where they could pray for protection in the hazardous conditions of the mine. In 1932, they carved out a small chapel within the subterranean tunnels. This humble place of devotion was gradually expanded, and between 1950 and 1953, a proper cathedral was constructed at a depth of around 120 metres.

Structural and safety concerns led to the closure of the original cathedral in 1990. However, the site’s profound symbolic and spiritual significance inspired the authorities to commission a new cathedral, this time built at a greater depth and according to more advanced engineering standards. The new Salt Cathedral, designed by Colombian architect Roswell Garavito Pearl, was officially inaugurated in 1995, 180 metres beneath the surface.

What to admire inside the Salt Cathedral

The Salt Cathedral ranks among the most remarkable underground constructions in the world, blending religious symbolism, artistic expression and geological wonder. Visitors enter through a tunnel that leads to the Stations of the Cross, a sequence of 14 chapels carved directly into the salt, each representing a moment from Christ’s journey to the crucifixion.

The cathedral’s architecture is structured around three vast naves, symbolising the birth, life, death and resurrection of Christ. At the heart of the central nave stands a monumental cross, towering at 16 metres and considered the largest cross ever sculpted in salt. Another extraordinary feature is the dome, also hewn from salt, which filters light in a strikingly atmospheric way, heightening the sense of sacredness throughout the space.

Beyond its religious significance, the cathedral also houses a collection of salt-carved sculptures and artworks, brought to life by carefully designed lighting that lends a dreamlike, almost otherworldly quality to the setting. Among the highlights is a salt replica of Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam, which can be admired embedded in the floor of the central nave.

How to get to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

There are several ways to reach the Salt Cathedral from Bogotá:

• By bus: regular buses to Zipaquirá depart from Bogotá’s Portal del Norte station. The journey takes roughly an hour, and tickets cost around 5,400 Colombian pesos (approximately €1.20). Once in Zipaquirá, it’s about a 20-minute walk from the bus terminal to the cathedral.
• By tourist train: at weekends and on public holidays, you can board the Tren Turístico de la Sabana, which offers a scenic ride through the Bogotá savannah. The journey takes around two hours and provides a picturesque and leisurely way to enjoy the landscape.
• By private car or taxi: hiring a car or taking a taxi is a comfortable choice for those preferring to travel independently. The journey typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic.

How to visit the Salt Cathedral

The Salt Cathedral is open every day from 9:00 am to 5:45 pm. Entry costs 55,000 Colombian pesos (approximately €12) for adults and 34,000 pesos (around €8) for children and seniors. The ticket price includes an audio guide available in several languages, including Italian, offering detailed insights into the cathedral’s history and architecture.

In addition to the standard self-guided visit, guided tours are also available, offering a deeper exploration of the site’s geological and religious significance. For a more enriching experience, it is recommended to book in advance and opt for a tour that includes access to the adjacent salt mines.

What to see near Zipaquirá Cathedral

As mentioned, Zipaquirá has much more to offer beyond its famous Salt Cathedral. The surrounding area is rich in history, culture and natural beauty, with several noteworthy attractions to explore:

• Zipaquirá’s Main Square: this is the historic heart of the city, framed by well-preserved colonial buildings and home to the Diocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. It’s a lively meeting point that reflects the town’s colonial heritage.
• Zipaquirá Archaeological Museum: dedicated to the Muisca civilisation, this museum displays a fascinating collection of artefacts that shed light on the history and traditions of one of Colombia’s most important pre-Hispanic cultures.
• Guatavita Lagoon: roughly an hour’s drive from Zipaquirá, this mystical lagoon is famously associated with the legend of El Dorado. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, it’s a perfect spot for nature walks and discovering Colombia’s rich mythology.
• Jaime Duque Park: a family-friendly theme park featuring landscaped gardens, scaled replicas of iconic monuments and a zoological area. It offers a mix of entertainment and education, making it a great day out for visitors of all ages.

What to eat in Zipaquirá: traditional specialities to try

In Zipaquirá, visitors can sample traditional dishes from the Cundinamarca region. One of the most iconic is ajiaco, a chicken-based soup that blends several varieties of local potatoes with corn. It’s enriched with cream and capers, and typically served with white rice and a slice of avocado on the side.

Another beloved local dish is fritanga, a generous platter featuring an assortment of meats such as chicken, beef, and pork, accompanied by Creole potatoes, yellow arepa, chorizo, yuca, and plantain. It’s usually enjoyed in good company and paired with a traditional drink.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini

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Curiosities

Parks and Nature

Travel

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