The Church of the Third Order, an architectural jewel built between 1761 and 1780, belongs to the Secular Third Order or Order of Penance, whose mission is to follow the precepts of the Order of St. Francis of Assisi. In its beginnings, the complex consisted of a church and a cloister, both of which were demolished in 1890. The church, at that time, was connected to the church of San Francisco by a bridge, also demolished in 1876. Its unequaled value lies in the exquisite vault and ceiling of carved wood with intricate geometric shapes, the work of the master Pedro Caballero in a style described as rococo, which was also reflected in the altarpieces, galleries, confessionals, frames, paintings and pulpit. Like its neighboring churches, it suffered the ravages of the 1785 earthquake, affecting mainly its structure and tower.
The name “La Tercera” is due to the fact that it belonged to the Secular Third Order of the Franciscans; for that reason, in its interior you will find significant catholic religious images such as: the Heart of Jesus, the Patroness of the Franciscan Order, the Immaculate Conception; you can also admire Saint Elizabeth of Hungary and Saint Joseph, patron saints of the Third Order. The church is not only a place of worship, but also a witness to the history and identity of Colombia. Over the years, it has been the scene of historical events, religious celebrations and cultural expressions that have left an indelible mark on the community and the country.
