Catedral Maria Auxiliadora in Neuquen

The Argentine city of Neuquen could not be called ancient. Its history is relatively short. But despite such a flaw, Neuquen has sites that deserve the close and admiring attention of travelers.

One of them is Catedral Maria Auxiliadora or Cathedral of St. Mary the Helper of Christians. Probably, it is not only the essential sacred structure of the city, but also its spiritual center, and a pattern of majestic architectural art.

The cathedral is located in the very center of this provincial capital. It is even younger than the city itself and was established in the 1950s. The Catholic community of Neuquen needed a beautiful and spacious church. The city was developing; people were making more families and bearing more children. Neuquen should have a suitable place for weddings and christenings. Besides, the chapel of Our Lady, which had existed for 53 years, could no longer accommodate all parishioners. After the construction of the Catedral Maria Auxiliadora, the chapel of Our Lady became the library of religious literature.

The cathedral was consecrated in 1950. The shrine has the shape of a Latin cross. Its facade is made of unplastered brick, decorated with magnificent arched windows. The cathedral has a bell tower and two turrets on the sides. A graceful window is traditionally located above the entrance. 

It is hard to define the architectural style of construction. Most likely, Neo-Roman and Neo-Gothic styles were mixed. They coexist and complement each other. Unfortunately, the cathedral is still incomplete. The construction was stopped in 2001. Nevertheless, Catedral Maria Auxiliadora remains the pride of Neuquen and its main shrine.