Built in the neoclassical style the Parroquia Inmaculada Concepción stands proudly. It’s popularly known as La Redonda because of its circular design. This beautiful church in the Belgrano neighborhood is more than just a place of worship. It’s a living testament to the history of Buenos Aires.
The story of La Redonda begins long before its current form. The first chapel in Belgrano was a humble structure. It was built by a landowner for his slaves. This original chapel was dedicated to San Benito. Years later the property changed hands. José Julián Arriola donated the chapel and surrounding land to the church. A brick kiln and a lime kiln were used by Franciscan friars.
A decree in 1855 mandated the restoration of the old building. This was to serve as a temporary school and chapel. The restored chapel was inaugurated on December 8 1856. The Governor of Buenos Aires Valentín Alsina attended the celebration. So did ministers the Archbishop of Buenos Aires and Monsignor Aneiros.
By 1860 the chapel was declared an official parish. It was deemed inadequate for the growing population. So the Municipality of Belgrano organized a committee. They planned the construction of a new and grander temple.
The foundation stone for the new church was laid in 1865. Engineer Nicolás Canale oversaw the construction. His son José and architect Juan Antonio Buschiazzo continued the work after his death. Funding proved a challenge. The old chapel and land were auctioned to raise more money.
The construction was a slow process due to a lack of funds. Don Diego Miller served as priest from 1871 to 1875. He dedicated his efforts to the temple’s construction. His name led the list of the commission involved in the temple’s opening.
Finally on December 8 1878 the church was inaugurated. President Nicolás Avellaneda and his ministers were in attendance. So were the governor of Buenos Aires Carlos Tejedor and high-ranking church officials.
La Redonda’s circular design is inspired by the Pantheon in Rome and the Church of the Gran Madre di Dio in Turin. The Parroquia Inmaculada Concepción is more than just a stunning architectural marvel. It’s a symbol of faith resilience and the enduring spirit of the Belgrano neighborhood. It’s a place where history and spirituality intertwine. A place of continued activity and community.