The scent of incense hangs heavy in the air. This is the Santisimo Redentor. A small but significant church in Buenos Aires.
The Santisimo Redentor stands before you a testament to faith and community. It’s a humble structure yet its history is rich. Monsignor Bottaro officially established this parish in 1928. But its story began much earlier. In 1889 local residents led by Agustin Vidal donated funds to build a convent. This was for the Sisters of the Visitation. An order founded in 1556 by Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jane Frances de Chantal.
In 1929 the sisters entrusted the chapel’s services to the Lourdes priests. A replica of the Lourdes grotto sits in the courtyard a lasting tribute to this connection. Later the sisters moved to a new convent in Flores. The Lourdes priests remained. They opened a school for boys under the patronage of Saint Michael.
The Santisimo Redentor was restored in 1913. Its current structure is largely intact. Inside three ornate altars stand out. They are made of carved oak and marble. One features a polychromed image of San Martin in a niche. Foliage decorates both altars. Another features San Agustin.
The main altar is impressive. It has three sections. The attic shows a relief of the Holy Trinity. The central image on the second level is the Redeemer himself. Flanking it are polychromed images of Saint Joseph and Our Lady of Lourdes. The first level holds only the image of Our Lady of Lujan.
The stained-glass windows depict Christian symbols. A few exceptions exist in the right aisle. One shows the Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes in France. Another is filled with fleurs-de-lis. The large window above the organ gallery again evokes the Lourdes apparition.
The Santisimo Redentor is more than just a building. It’s a vibrant center of faith. It has hosted countless masses baptisms and weddings. The quiet strength of this small church is palpable. A place where the stories of Buenos Aires unfold. One prayer at a time. It’s a hidden gem. A must-see for those seeking a deeper understanding of Buenos Aires’ spiritual heart.