“Ever get the feeling you’re being watched?” That’s how many feel when they first see the Sanctuary of San Cayetano. The church’s presence is strong. Its history is rich. Prepare to discover the story of this iconic sanctuary.
The Sanctuary of San Cayetano is famous. Its profile is on the Metro Lindavista station logo. The metro station is a few blocks south. It sits at the intersection of Lindavista and Politecnico avenues.
San Cayetano might seem like another mid-20th-century church. But its great weight and community support set it apart. Architect Francisco J. Serrano designed the church. He is known for the Torres Arcos Bosques I & II. Serrano also designed the core of the La Ibero Campus. This includes the Francisco Xavier Clavijero Library.
The first stone of San Cayetano was laid in 1952. Construction lasted until 1960. The four 33-meter parabolic arches were built between 1956 and 1957. Before this, work focused on pilings and foundations. With the arches done, vaults and the dome could begin. The dome covers 630 square meters. It was finished in 1958. The first mass was held in 1959. This was after the stained glass windows were placed.
San Cayetano is considered the largest sanctuary dedicated to Saint Cajetan. Decoration continued through the 1960s. The church was consecrated in 1966. It was damaged in the 1985 earthquake. San Cayetano was re-consecrated upon its reopening in 1990.
The Metrobus station is right in front of San Cayetano. It is on Avenida Montevideo.
Saint Cajetan lived from 1480 to 1547. He was an Italian Catholic priest. He was also a religious reformer. Cajetan co-founded the Theatines order. This order is also known as the Clerks Regular. It was founded in 1524. Cajetan was ordained in 1516. He was canonized in 1671. He also founded the Banco di Napoli. Cajetan started the bank to avoid usury. It was also to better serve the poor. He is the patron saint of Argentina. He is also the patron saint of gamblers. Finally, he is the patron saint of good fortune in gaming.
San Cayetano stands as a testament to faith. It also exemplifies architectural innovation. Its arches reach toward the sky. The sanctuary invites reflection. It reminds us of Saint Cajetan’s dedication. It is a story of faith, community, and architectural vision.