Buenos Aires church reopens after cracks appear; dispute over Mormon temple construction continues

Services have resumed inside the historic Santa Catalina church in Buenos Aires after a month-long closure due to structural concerns. The church, built in 1745, had been closed since May 18 following the appearance of significant cracks.

Church authorities attribute the cracks to streetworks conducted by the City Government on Viamonte street. This led to a period of tension, with closures, accusations, and uncertainty surrounding the building's integrity. During the closure, masses were held outdoors in the atrium, with the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Monsignor Jorge García Cuerva, even leading a service there in solidarity with the community.

Residents and the Santa Catalina community have voiced concerns about the potential deterioration of the church's heritage and structure. They are also actively opposing the construction of a large Mormon temple planned for the same block, just meters away from the church complex, which includes the ancient monastery, a rare surviving example of colonial architecture.

Father Gustavo Antico, the church's rector, confirmed that masses are now being held inside, and regular activities have resumed. However, ongoing technical studies are monitoring the building's vibrations and the progression of the fissures. While streetworks have paused on the block containing the church, they continue on adjacent streets. The community awaits a judicial decision on a challenge to the Mormon church's construction permit, while a separate court order remains in place to halt city works on Viamonte street.