Iglesia de la Concepcion (Church of Our Lady of the Conception), Bogota

The Church of Our Lady of the Conception, located in the historic La Candelaria neighborhood of Bogota, is a Catholic temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary under the invocation of the Immaculate Conception. Built between 1583 and 1595, it was part of the former La Concepcion Monastery and is among the oldest religious structures in the city. Reflecting the colonial architectural style of its era, the church's rectangular single-nave design and two side entrances were typical features of convent-affiliated churches. In recognition of its historical and cultural importance, it was declared a National Monument in 1975.

Founded in 1583 by merchant Luis Lopez Ortiz, the church stands near Bogota's 10th Street, close to the central plaza and the site of the old city jail. It is believed to be part of the first convent established in the city. The foundation stone was laid in September 1583, marking the beginning of its long history.

The church's rectangular nave measures 11.5 by 42 meters, with the presbytery as its highlight, featuring a cherub-adorned main arch with gold-leaf wood carvings. The coffered ceiling showcases intricate floral polychrome motifs, geometric patterns, and decorative elements like diamond points and pinjantes. Built with stone and brick masonry without adhesives, the walls rely on an interlocking framework and have been modified over time with Neoclassical details such as pilasters, arcades, and cornices.

While much of the church's original furnishings have been replaced, its main altarpiece, although recently manufactured and repainted, complements the space. The tabernacle and expository, equipped with a modern electromechanical elevator system, replaced the original crypt. A slab from the crypt, inscribed with a humble epitaph for Luis López Ortiz, remains a poignant reminder of the church's founder.

These historical and architectural elements, combined with their deep religious and cultural significance, make the Church of Our Lady of the Conception a treasured landmark in Bogota.