Templo Ingles (English Temple), Montevideo

The English Temple (Templo Ingles), or the Temple of the Holy Trinity, is an Anglican cathedral situated in the Old City of Montevideo. It serves as the cathedral for the Uruguayan diocese of the Anglican Church of South America and holds historical significance as the first Anglican church in Uruguay.

The need for an Anglican temple in Montevideo emerged during the Great War, reflecting the religious needs of a significant foreign population residing in the city. In 1844, Anglicans, supported by consuls from the United States, Sweden, and England, successfully petitioned the Uruguayan government for permission to construct a church.

The original temple was constructed in the 1830s on the seashore, funded entirely by Samuel Fisher Lafone. By the early 20th century, due to urban development and the expansion of the Rambla of Montevideo, the temple needed to be relocated. The original building was ultimately demolished to make way for the South Rambla, and a new temple was constructed at its present location.

The design and construction of the first temple were overseen by Antonio Paulliere and inaugurated in 1845 near the South Cube. The modern temple was opened on June 6, 1936, after a period during which services were temporarily held in an English bank in the vicinity due to ongoing construction.

Today, the English Temple stands as a testament to the historical Anglican presence and architectural adaptation in Montevideo, continuing to serve its community within the vibrant cultural tapestry of the city.