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A devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake has caused widespread destruction in the city of Manizales, Colombia, including significant damage to the historic Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. The tremors shook the region on Monday morning, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries.
According to official reports, the earthquake’s epicenter was located near the city of Armenia in Quindío department, roughly 50 kilometers northeast of Manizales. The Cathedral Basilica, a prominent architectural landmark in the city, has suffered substantial damage, with its exterior walls showing signs of cracks and partial collapse.
The cathedral, completed in 1887, is a notable example of Gothic revival architecture in Colombia and an important pilgrimage site for Catholics. Its intricate stone façade, which has been a fixture of the city’s skyline for over a century, now lies in ruins.
“It’s a sad day for the city of Manizales, and for the Catholic community,” said Archbishop Héctor Cubillos Peña, who is spearheading the Catholic Church’s response efforts to the disaster. “We pray for the victims of this tragedy and for their families.”
Witnesses described the earthquake as a prolonged tremor that caused buildings to sway violently and household objects to fall. “It was a nightmare,” said local resident, Ana María González. “We were inside when it started, and everything was shaking. We had to get out quickly, as the walls were crumbling around us.”
Emergency services have been deployed to the affected areas, with search and rescue teams combing through the rubble to locate survivors. According to authorities, at least 10 fatalities have been confirmed, with numerous individuals reported injured.
Residents have been advised to remain outdoors and follow evacuation orders, as aftershocks are expected in the coming days. A nationwide state of emergency has been declared, with humanitarian aid pouring into the region.
President Gustavo Petro expressed his condolences to the people of Colombia and pledged support for those affected by the disaster. “The Colombian government stands united with the people of Manizales in this time of sorrow,” he said in a statement.
As the city struggles to come to terms with the devastation, residents have begun to rally around each other in support of the relief efforts. Donations have been pouring in from local and international organizations, with funds earmarked for emergency shelter, medical care, and rebuilding initiatives.
The Cathedral Basilica’s destruction has sparked an outpouring of grief and concern for the preservation of Colombia’s cultural heritage. Efforts are underway to survey the damage and determine whether the landmark will be repaired or rebuilt. For now, the focus remains on providing aid and support to those affected by the disaster.