Is that the sound of bells I hear? It must be coming from the Parroquia Nuestra Señora de los Dolores. This iconic church holds not only religious significance but also a wealth of history within its walls.
Originally known as Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, the church has witnessed Cali’s transformation from a small village to a bustling city. The bells of La Ermita have been sounding every 15 minutes since 1936. These bells were donated by the Antioquian and Caldense communities. They celebrated Cali’s 478th anniversary.
High above the city, these bronze giants keep singing. The names of benefactors are inscribed on them. Francisca de Castro is one such name. She helped rebuild La Ermita. Micaela Castro Borrero, a Cali matron, also aided in the reconstruction after the 1925 earthquake nearly destroyed it.
The bells once relied on ropes, pulleys, and the sacristan’s strength. But in 2003, Canadian technology and software took over. Now, 64 melodies can be played. These include the Ave Maria and Westminster from London’s Big Ben. They announce weddings, funerals, and religious holidays.
The bells were made in Paris. They are more than just heavy structures. They are a treasure. The mayor sees La Ermita and its bells as part of the city’s transformation. He wants Cali’s name to resonate beyond national borders.
La Ermita stands at the intersection of Calle 13 and Avenida Colombia. It is surrounded by the Jorge Isaacs Theater, the old Coltabaco building, and the Parque de Los Poetas. The church we see today was built in 1942. It is a miniature neo-Gothic church. Like many others in America, it was inspired by the Ulm Cathedral in Germany. La Ermita is dedicated to Nuestra Señora de los Dolores. Inside, the old image of the Señor de la Caña is preserved on the left side of the altar. Both the main altar and the Señor de la Caña altar are made of white marble.
Many architectural pieces were brought from abroad. The bells were cast and brought from Levallois near Paris. The stained-glass windows depict the apostles and come from Amsterdam. The iron gates were made in Cali in 1937. Students from the municipal school of arts and trades created them.
Inside, you can find ancient images dating back over three centuries. These include Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, Cristo de la Caña, San José, La Magdalena, San Francisco Javier, San Antonio, and the Ecce Homo. These images capture the attention of visitors.
Currently, the bell tower is being restored. The lighting has been changed. There are plans to restore the paint and the spires. However, you can still visit and see the archaeological objects inside. La Ermita is more than just a church. It is a symbol of Cali’s history, art, and faith. It stands as a testament to the city’s resilience and devotion.