cathedral · Caxias do Sul, RS
Catedral Santa Teresa
Its cornerstone was laid in 1895 and it opened in 1899. It stands on Praça Dante Alighieri and follows a simplified Neo-Gothic style inspired by the Basilica of Saint Anthony in Bologna. The interior has three naves, a Neo-Gothic high altar and stained glass from Germany.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Catedral Santa Teresa
The Catedral Santa Teresa is the main church of Caxias do Sul and the seat of the diocese. It faces Praça Dante Alighieri, in the historic center, and together they form one of the best-known postcard views in Serra Gaúcha.
The cornerstone was laid in 1895, and the church opened in 1899, built by the Italian immigrant community. It is dedicated to Saint Teresa of Ávila. It became a cathedral in the 1930s, when the Diocese of Caxias do Sul was created.
The style is Neo-Gothic, with pointed-arch doors, a large rose window on the facade and a tall bell tower alongside. Inside, there are three naves, colorful stained glass and a Neo-Gothic high altar of carved wood, full of gilded details, that catches your eye as soon as you walk in.
The visit is short and relaxed, good if you're exploring the center. The church sits slightly above street level, with steps in front. During Mass, visit discreetly.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes, including the church and a stroll around the square in front.
Best time
During the day, in the morning or mid-afternoon and outside Mass times, when you can look at the altar calmly; on clear days, the facade looks beautiful from the square.
How to get there
It faces Praça Dante Alighieri, in the center of Caxias do Sul (RS). If you're staying downtown, you can walk; from other neighborhoods, take a taxi, ride-hailing app or bus to the center.
Tip
Combine your visit with Praça Dante Alighieri, right in front, and with the Palacete Eberle and the Pátio Eberle, a few steps away.
A look at the place
Catedral Santa Teresa in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catedral Santa Teresa
Is there an entrance fee for the Caxias do Sul Cathedral?
No. Admission is free. Check opening and Mass times before you go.
How long does the visit take?
20 to 40 minutes, including a stroll around Praça Dante Alighieri, in front.
When was the cathedral built?
The cornerstone was laid in 1895, and the church opened in 1899, built by the Italian immigrant community.
Can you walk there from downtown?
Yes. It's right in the center, facing Praça Dante Alighieri.
What style is the cathedral?
Neo-Gothic, with pointed-arch doors, a rose window on the facade, three naves and a carved wooden high altar.