Cathedral of the Incarnation

About this place

The Cathedral of the Incarnation is the main church of Encarnación, capital of Itapúa Department in southern Paraguay, and the seat of the city's diocese. Its white building with twin towers and domes stands out above the rooftops in the city centre, one of the clearest landmarks for visitors to the waterfront and old town. Its history goes back to earlier churches, including one of 1718 on what is now the Plaza de Armas and another of 1848 on the same site. Work on the present church began in 1913 and continued between 1928 and 1938, when it opened. The city became the centre of a territorial prelature in 1957, which was later raised to a diocese. The facade has stepped white ornament, two towers topped with domes and wide steps rising from the street. The building looks very different by day and night, as special lighting was added for the country's bicentenary, so the towers and entrance glow after sunset. From some nearby streets the towers rise above low houses and trees. It is 3 km in a straight line from the Former Railway Station, so both fit a walk with the waterfront. This is a place of worship, so dress modestly, stay quiet and do not walk around during mass. Early morning or after sunset is best, when the heat eases and the view improves.