Did you know that Parroquia Nuestra Señora de los Dolores is more than just a church? It is a historical landmark. This beautiful church, also known as Iglesia del Reducto, stands proudly on Avenida Garibaldi. It faces the Plaza Cardenal Barbieri.
Parroquia Nuestra Señora de los Dolores is one of Montevideo’s oldest churches. It was declared a National Historical Heritage site in August 1975. The church’s foundation stone was laid on March 1, 1874. This ceremony took place on the grounds of “la quinta de Varela”. Construction began on February 1. Don Pascual Gervasio directed the work. Romeo Poretti was the architect.
Inside Parroquia Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, noble materials highlight the finishes. Admire the two-tone stone checkerboard pattern of the pavement. Notice the stucco work on the side columns. Appreciate the marble in the base and walls of the main altar. The main nave features a vaulted ceiling. It culminates in a dome above the main altar. Throughout the interior, paint and moldings complement the structure’s rhythm.
Natural light floods the space through large, colorful stained-glass windows. This bathes the interior in a unique chromatic play. The temple opened on October 12, 1875. Monsignor Jacinto Vera celebrated the inaugural mass. Construction continued that year with the altars of Our Lady of Lourdes and the Rosary.
In 1876, the altar of Saint Roque was built. The altar of Saint Joseph followed in 1883. By 1884, the exterior was painted in oil. The main bell was acquired. A baptistery with a baptismal font was also constructed. The altar of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was inaugurated in 1891.
Take note of the complete original organ in the church’s choir. E. F. Walcker & Cie., a German organ manufacturer since the early 1800s, created it. The organ is currently out of service due to aging parts. Efforts are underway to restore it to its former glory.
The Colegio Sagrado Corazón completes the architectural ensemble. It occupies the entire block. This school traces its origins to the former Colegio San Luis. From the plaza, the church dominates the view. Its presence is striking both during the day and in the quiet of the night. Parroquia Nuestra Señora de los Dolores stands as a testament to history and faith.