Historical introduction
El Calvario is not just a neighborhood, it's where the religious soul of Cali beats. This area, located in the city center, gets its name from the iconic Capilla de El Calvario, built in 1747 and considered one of the best-preserved colonial architectural jewels in Valle del Cauca. For centuries it has been a pilgrimage site and key setting during Cali's Holy Week.
Little known fact: beneath the chapel there are colonial tunnels that connected to other city temples, used during the Independence era. Today they can only be visited with special permits from the Ministry of Culture.
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What to do in El Calvario
Must-see attractions
- Capilla de El Calvario: The neighborhood's star. Its golden altar and 18th-century images are stunning. Open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm.
- Museo Religioso: Attached to the chapel, it preserves priestly vestments and liturgical objects over 200 years old. Entry $5,000 COP (April 2026).
- Plazoleta de San Francisco: Where local artisans sell miniature replicas of the chapel made from tagua.
Unique experiences
- Procesión del Silencio: Every Holy Thursday at 8pm, the neighborhood transforms into a living stage with hundreds of candles.
- Taller de Velas Artesanales: At Calle 7 #2-45 you can learn to make candles like those used in processions. Classes on Wednesdays ($20,000 COP materials included).
Where to eat and drink
Traditional flavors
- La Fonda de El Calvario (Carrera 4 #7-20): The most authentic sancocho de gallina in downtown ($15,000 COP). Only open until 3pm.
- Dulcería La Merced: Since 1958 they've been making the famous "manjarblancos" (milk dessert). Try the coconut version ($3,500 COP per serving).
For drinks
- Café del Claustro: In a colonial patio they serve the best tinto with yuca bread. Perfect for afternoons.
- La Cervecería: Microbrewery honoring the neighborhood's beer tradition since the 1940s.
How to get there and transportation
El Calvario is a 15-minute walk from Parque de Cali. Options include:
- MIO: "San Francisco" station (Calle 5 Trunk Line).
- Taxi: From anywhere in the city costs approximately $10,000-$15,000 COP.
- Bicycle: There are secure bike racks in front of the chapel.
Local tip: Avoid driving your own car - the streets are narrow and parking is scarce.
Local tips
- Sundays feature sung mass with choir at 11am - even if you're not religious, it's worth it for the acoustics.
- Buy the illustrated "historical map" ($2,000 COP) at the corner store - it marks all the details regular tours overlook.
- If visiting in December, don't miss "Alumbrado del Barrio" (December 20 to January 6) when they decorate the entire area with thousands of lights.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to visit El Calvario at night?
During religious events like Holy Week or Christmas there's police presence and it's safe. At other times, I recommend visiting only during the day and staying in the main areas around the chapel.
Are there restrictions to enter the Capilla?
They only ask for appropriate clothing (no very short shorts or bare shoulders). Photos without flash are allowed. During masses (times posted at the door) silence is requested.
Where can I buy authentic souvenirs?
The stalls in front of the chapel sell religious items. For higher quality crafts, go to "Casa de la Artesanía Vallecaucana" two blocks away (Calle 5 #4-15), where they work directly with indigenous communities.