Very often, the construction of churches was related to the founding of the cities in Argentina. People were settling in a new place, developing areas, and building chapels or churches. It also happened in the city of San Salvador de Jujuy. The sacred building, transforming to Catedral de San Salvador de Jujuy, was erected by the Jesuits in the 16th century. Originally, it was a modest two-nave building, where services were held.
In the 17th century, the church was strengthened, but it was not enough. The shrine was destroyed by an earthquake. A benefactor, wealthy Spanish merchant Don Agustin de Leise y Tiere, gave money to the cathedral. He helped to restore ruins and also bought an altar and pulpit. In 1763, the construction was completed.
Throughout its 200-year history, the architectural image of the shrine was modifying for several times. The original exterior in the Colonial style changed to a neoclassical one.
In 1931, the temple was considered a national historical monument. In 1935, it acquired the status of a cathedral. What about the interior of the shrine, its main treasure is the gilded pulpit in the Baroque style. It is made of precious woods, oak, and cedar. The pulpit is not just a masterpiece, but also one of the most important sacred relics of the country.
In 2004, the canon Juan Ignacio Gorriti and his brother Jose Ignacio found their last refuge in the temple. Catedral de San Salvador de Jujuy is also related to one of Argentina's most important historical events.