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Church · Paysandú, Paysandú
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and Saint Benedict of Palermo
The main church of Paysandú, in the city center. The current temple dates from 1860, was heavily damaged during the 1864–1865 siege and rebuilt; it houses a Walcker organ from 1906 and was granted the title of basilica in 1949.
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 Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and Saint Benedict of Palermo
The parish of Paysandú was established in 1805, when the settlement was still small on the banks of the Uruguay River. The temple you see today dates from 1860. A few years later, during the siege the city endured between December 1864 and January 1865, the church was badly damaged and had to be rebuilt.
The church is dedicated to the Virgin of the Rosary and to Saint Benedict of Palermo, a Sicilian saint known as Saint Benedict the Moor. The façade and the interior follow classical lines, with symmetrical proportions, tall windows and columns.
In 1906 the pipe organ from the German firm Walcker was inaugurated; it remains in use for masses and concerts. In 1949 Pope Pius XII granted the church the title of minor basilica. Besides religious services, the temple hosts cultural events for the city.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes for the nave, the altars and the organ.
Best time
During the day, outside mass times, when visiting will not interrupt services. Opening hours vary: confirm before you go.
How to get there
It is in the center of Paysandú, on Montecaseros street, between 18 de Julio and Florida, near Plaza Constitución. It's a few blocks on foot from the Florencio Sánchez Theatre.
Tip
If there is an organ concert on the city program, it is worth hearing the 1906 Walcker. Combine the visit with the theatre and the Monument to Perpetuity, all in the center.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and Saint Benedict of Palermo
When was the basilica of Paysandú built?
The current temple dates from 1860. It was heavily damaged in the 1864–1865 siege and was rebuilt afterward. The parish is older, from 1805.
Why is the church of Paysandú a basilica?
In 1949 Pope Pius XII granted it the title of minor basilica, a distinction given to churches of religious and historical importance.
What is there to see inside the basilica of Paysandú?
The altars, the nave with classical lines, and the Walcker pipe organ, installed in 1906 and still used in masses and concerts.