Catedral Metropolitana de la Asunción de María travel guide

One of the largest cathedrals in the Western hemisphere.

The cathedral on the north side of the main square is one of the oldest and largest sacral buildings in the western hemisphere. Together with the National Palace, it dominates the main square. Buried underneath the cathedral is the south-western part of the former Aztec temple area with the Wall of the Skulls and the Temple of Xipe Tótec, among other structures. Construction of the original cathedral began in 1525. However, this original church has been partially demolished and partially reconstructed. The current cathedral dates back to 1563. It took 250 years to build the massive building from basalt and grey sandstone and it therefore represents many styles; nevertheless, the cathedral captivates onlookers because of its outstanding harmony. The massive covings and spiral columns give the façade an overall Baroque appearance, despite the two neo-classical open work towers and other architectural elements. The bell towers were added in 1793. In 1813, the dome was completed and three statues were added to the clock tower, representing faith, hope and compassion. The statues are ascribed to Manuel Tolsá. The way the bells are hung in the tower is uncommon, as is their varying sizes. One of the bells, named Guadalupe, weighs a hefty 5,600kg/12,346lbs.
The interior of the cathedral is divided in a main nave and two side naves. There are also 14 side altars. Again, the cathedral exhibits all the artistic styles and fashions that were prevalent in colonial times.
Inside find the most outstanding feature - the elaborately carved ultra-Baroque Altar of the Kings (Altar de los Reyes).

Not to forget the Sagrario Metropolitano. The sacrament tabernacle is situated east of the cathedral. This parish church (consecrated in 1768) is one of the best examples of Mexican ultra-Baroque architecture.

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