Going on vacation to Mexico City? Want to take a look at some of the oldest and most magnificent churches outside of Europe? Our guide to Mexico City churches gives you the facts & information you want to know.
The Metropolitan Church in Mexico City is centrally located in the centre of the city making it one of the most significant churches in all Mexico. Located on the north side of the town centre, this cathedral is visited by thousands daily. Although building originally began in 1573, the cathedral has been modified several times since incorporating different artistic and architectural styles into its body. Presently, the church is undergoing serious corrective engineering to halt the sinking of one side of the church into the soft sand base.
The exterior of the church was designed to emulate the grand cathedrals of Toledo and Granada in Spain, and those who have been lucky enough to visit both places will be able to attest to the similarities. During the 17th century several elements of baroque architecture were incorporated into the bulidins. Highlights of this Mexico city church include the central panel behind the alter depicting the assumption of virgin Mary, to whom the cathedral is dedicated. Interestingly, the panels on the north side of the building have been done in a clear renaissance style while the bell shaped towers were only added in the 18th century. In addition to several fine pieces of baroque sculpture the artistic highlight of this church is probably the alter of the three Kings which dates back to the 18th century and is located behind the main alter.
Monastery of Churbusco
Although strictly speaking not a church, this monastery is a must see for those interested in history. This monastery was the scene of a great battle during the Mexican American War. The Mexicans fought bravely to stave of US attacks before finally succumbing to overwhelming firepower. History records that the Mexicans fought to the last bullet before charging the Americans in a desire to engage in hand to hand combat. Today the monastery serves as the museum of national interventions and contains lots of old maps explaining Mexico’s military past. The museum is open from 9am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday and admission costs $1.50
Church Of San Franciso Javier
This Jesuit church was built near the town centre in 1670 and during the 18th century was considered one of the most lavish and opulent churches in all of Mexico. The church sports a single tower as well as interior walls covered with gilded multi colored ornamentation. The church has been transformed into a museum and now serves to display local folk art including porcelain, furniture, religious paintings and even silver challises. The museum is open from 10am until 5 pm Everyday except Monday when it is closed.
