Top Choice

Catedral Metropolitana

Catedral Metropolitana in San Salvador

Facing the revamped Plaza Barrios, the cathedral is the most significant landmark in the city and the resting place of Archbishop Óscar A Romero. In the early days of the civil war, Monseñor Romero criticized the government from the pulpit until he was assassinated in 1980 while giving Mass at a nearby hospital. Look for his image in the mural inside the dome.

Monseñor Romero's tomb, decorated with a sculpture by Italian artist Paolo Borghi, can be viewed in the crypt below the cathedral.

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.


Must-see attractions