Religious Sites in Caracas

Cathedral Metropolitana de Caracas
Plaza Bolivar, El Centro

With its original facade unaltered since it was built at the end of the 17th century, the Metropolitan Cathedral towers over Plaza Bolívar. The main altar is a magnificent Baroque creation gilded with more than 300 pounds of gold leaf. Don't miss the Bolívar family chapel on the right-hand side.
Open from 8am to 1pm and 3pm to 6pm, Sun-Tues.

Iglesia de San Francisco
Av. Bolsa at Av. San Francisco
El Centro

Filled with richly gilded altars, this church dating from 1593 was the site of Simón Bolívar's proclamation as "El Libertador" (the Liberator) and of his massive funeral 12 years after his 1830 death. It remains the loveliest example of colonial architecture in Caracas.
Open daily from 7am to noon and 3pm to 6pm

Panteon Nacional
Av. Norte, El Centro

Five blocks north of Plaza Bolívar, the striking National Pantheon's exquisite marble interior holds the remains of 138 Venezuelan political and historical figures, including Simón Bolívar. The walls and ceilings are graced with murals depicting some of the most famous battles for independence.
Open from 9am to noon and 2:30pm to 5pm, Tues to Fri. Open from 10am to noon and 3 pm to 5pm on weekends.