Parroquia San José

“Look at the unique shape of those towers,” a child’s voice broke the silence, pointing at the Parroquia San José. The Parroquia San José isn’t your typical church. Imagine a church where the architectural style seems to defy the norms of its time. Built in the 19th century, it stands as a symbol of transition from the colonial era to a new age of prosperity in Argentina. Unlike the traditional, narrow churches of the countryside, the Parroquia San José boasts a spacious interior. Its wide arches, resembling those found in Salta’s Cachi, are supported by impressive buttresses. What makes these buttresses even more special is their extension outwards. They form covered walkways on each side of the church, creating a welcoming space for the community. These walkways, adorned with successive arches, were not just architectural flourishes. They served a practical purpose, offering shade and shelter from the elements. People arriving for mass, whether on horseback, in carts, or carriages, could gather here. It was a place for socializing before and after services. The towers of the Parroquia San José are another captivating feature. They are built with the characteristic “laja” stone of the region. This style, also seen in the Varela church, highlights the local craftsmanship. One tower stands taller, resembling a fortified watchtower, while the other houses a bell tower with a hexagonal pyramidal dome. The central facade, adorned with a rosette window, reflects a neoclassical style. With its frontispiece, niches, and paired pilasters, it echoes the grandeur of 18th-century Jesuit architecture. You can almost see the echoes of architect Andrés Blanqui’s masterpieces in the Parroquia San José. It’s a fascinating blend of architectural styles.