Why does this church have such a special name? Let’s explore the story of the Iglesia Virgen del Carmen y Santa Teresita in Montevideo. This church is also known as Parroquia de los Carmelitas. It stands as a testament to faith and architectural vision.
Construction began around 1910. It started with a small community for the Padres Carmelitas Descalzos in the Prado. Later, the Padres Carmelitas Descalzos commissioned a new church. Architect Guillermo Armas O’Shanahan designed it. He collaborated with Alberico Isola Isola y Armas on this project. The architectural style is late Neo-Gothic.
The church is dedicated to Nuestra Señora de Monte Carmelo. It is also dedicated to Santa Teresita de Lisieux. The Iglesia Virgen del Carmen y Santa Teresita was inaugurated in 1954. It officially became a parish on September 8, 1962.
Later, architects Román Berro and Américo Bonabala took charge. They designed the building adjacent to the parish. The Iglesia Virgen del Carmen y Santa Teresita is part of the Archdiocese of Montevideo. It is a recognized National Historical Monument. This status was granted on September 8, 1962.
This church reflects the history of the Catholic community in Montevideo. The Iglesia Virgen del Carmen y Santa Teresita stands proudly in the Prado neighborhood.