“If I live in a palace, then so should God.” This audacious declaration by Mercedes Castellanos de Anchorena led to the creation of the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento. We’re standing before one of Buenos Aires’ most luxurious churches. It is a testament to faith and opulence.
Mercedes Castellanos de Anchorena commissioned this architectural gem in the early 20th century. Construction began in 1908 and concluded in 1916. The Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento quickly became a coveted venue for Buenos Aires’ high society weddings. Even Diego Maradona chose this location to get married.
Notice the eclectic style. The architects drew inspiration from the Cathedral of Angoulême. The church boasts five towers. Three are visible from the front. Two grace the apse. Unlike Gothic cathedrals these towers don’t reach to the sky. They aren’t like the square walls of Romanesque churches either.
Step inside. The interior reveals a neo-Gothic design with three naves. Light streams through stained glass windows. Gold and silver accents adorn the altar. Granites from Baveno and the Vosges add texture. Red Verona marble and white Carrara marble provide contrast. Onyx from Morocco adds an exotic touch. Venetian mosaics decorate the space.
The Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento features artistic sculptures carved from white marble. Wood carvings crafted in Europe enhance the interior. The church is home to a Mutin Cavaillé-Coll organ. It has five thousand pipes. This grand instrument was inaugurated in 1915. The owner of the manufacturing company Charles Mutin was present. They played Widor’s Fifth Symphony. It is the largest functioning organ in Argentina today.
Beneath the main floor lies a crypt. This is where Mercedes Castellanos de Anchorena rests. She had requested to be buried with her family. Only her remains are here. The crypt is as large as the basilica above. It could accommodate 800 people. The crypt has granite floors from Germany. Marble and lighting fixtures came from Italy.
Legend has it that the Kavanagh Building was built to spite Mercedes. Allegedly she disapproved of a romance. As revenge Corina Kavanagh blocked the basilica’s view from Mercedes’ palace. However historians suggest this is just a myth.
Whether the legends are true or not, the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento remains a symbol of devotion and luxury. It is a place where architecture, art, and history converge. As you leave take one last look at the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento. Remember the story of Mercedes and her palace for God.