Jesuit Mission Church

Santa Cruz & Gran Chiquitania


The restored interior of this 1747 mission is particularly beautiful, and the original paintings and woodwork remain intact. The pulpit is covered with a layer of lustrous mica, the ceiling is made of reeds and the spiral pillars were carved from cuchi (ironwood) logs. If you find the church locked, look on the main door for the phone number of the key holder.

This is the only mission church to retain the original style of roof, with cane sheathing. Most interesting are the lovely music-themed paintings in praise of God along the entrance wall, which include depictions of a harp, flute, bassoon, horn and maracas.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Santa Cruz & Gran Chiquitania attractions

1. Iglesia de Santa Ana

13.99 MILES

Santa Ana church, with its wooden altar and reed roof, is more rustic than others on the mission circuit and recalls the first churches constructed by the…

2. Jesuit Mission Church

20.39 MILES

The church of San Miguel's spiral pillars, carved wooden altar with a flying San Miguel, extravagant golden pulpit, religious artwork, toy-like bell tower…