Overlooking a leafy square on Punta del Este’s peninsula is the Candelaria Church (Iglesia Candelaria). Inaugurated in the early 1900s, the picturesque church honours the Virgin of Candelaria and is one of the town’s most important places of worship. The present-day Candelaria Church is the result of an expansion in 1941 using money donated by 100 of the area’s most affluent local families.
Take a moment to admire the church’s simple yet elegant design. Its façade painted in a sky-blue colour creates a striking impact against the town’s sun-drenched land and clear skies. The church’s entrance and bell tower are the only surviving features of the original building.
Step inside to find a nave dominated by whitewashed arches and pillars. Note the colourful mosaic floor tiles and the portrayals of the Stations of the Cross adorning the interior walls. Go to the altar to see an icon of the crucifixion of Jesus incorporated with a painting of praying angels. Sit on a pew, appreciate the church’s serene atmosphere and reflect quietly as other worshippers come to say prayers.
Visit the church on any day. It’s especially busy on Saturdays and Sundays, when residents of Punta del Este congregate for the weekend mass services.
The church is a 10-minute walk from Punta del Este Port and about a 20-minute walk from the main bus terminal. Park for free on the surrounding streets.
After visiting the Candelaria Church, check out the 19th-century Punta del Este Lighthouse, located on the opposite side of the square. On specific days you can climb the 150 steps to enjoy views from a lookout platform. Go to the coastal road and follow the esplanade to El Emir Beach. Here, a revered image of the Virgin of Candelaria sits on a rocky point, decorated with plaques that give thanks and ask for blessings.
