Looking to explore a breathtaking edifice in the heart of the Mexican city of Durango? Look no further than the Durango Cathedral, an impressive baroque structure dating back to the 18th century that continues to draw large crowds of tourists year-and-year. Here is all the information you need to know about this majestic historical site, including a few fascinating facts, travel tips, popular attractions, and more! Discover why the Durango Cathedral remains popular amongst many travelers and learn what makes it so unique.
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Cathedral
1. It is the oldest cathedral in Mexico, having been built between 1725 and 1759.
2. Built by the Franciscan order, it is a baroque-style construction.
3. The façade is made of pink quarry, while the two towers were built in Gothic style.
4. The smaller archway has a pair of doors made from wood with the shape of a shield.
5. Inside, the presbytery was enriched with a golden altarpiece with carved flowers.
6. The renowned Durango Cathedral contains many works of art, including an altarpiece in the shape of an inverted cross.
7. In 1810, the cathedral was used as a barracks and powder magazine by the insurgents of the Independence of Mexico.
8. The two towers of the cathedral measure 12.50 meters and 17.20 meters in height.
9. The main organ of the Durango Cathedral was built in 1906 by the prestigious Spanish company ‘Rodio y Ferrari’ from Lleida.
10. The Cathedral has a small museum where you can admire alabaster and wooden sculptures created in the first half of the 18th century.
Cathedral
The Catedral de Durango, or the Durango Cathedral, is a Baroque-style Catholic church in the city of Durango, Mexico. It is located at the Plaza de Armas in the center of the city. The Catedral de Durango is the seat of the Archdiocese of Durango and was built in 1793.
The cathedral’s construction dates from the period of New Spain. Bishop Alvarez de Abreu started the construction in 1793. The church was designed by a team of architects, which included Ignacio Castera and Francisco Antonio de Irriberri. The facade is a combination of late Baroque and Neoclassical styles.
The interior of the church is very ornate with a high altar, a bell tower, and several side altars. The altar is decorated with several paintings and sculptures, some of which are from the late 18th century. The bell tower was created in 1797 and was designed by Mexican architect Andrés de la Garza.
The Durango Cathedral has long been an important pilgrimage site for Catholics due to the many saints, relics, and other religious artifacts and sculptures kept inside the church. It is also home to a museum which features a collection of religious art from around the world, including paintings, statues, and carvings from various eras.
The Durango Cathedral is open to the public and visitors can explore the church, learn about its history, and take in the architecture and artwork. The church is also a popular sightseeing spot for visitors and is a popular wedding venue.
, Mexico
Durango is a large Mexican city located in the northwestern part of the country. Within Durango, sits the iconic Durango Cathedral, a 16th century Gothic-style structure that is one of the oldest churches in the region. It features a breathtaking mix of engraved sculptures, stained glass, and religious art, and is a must-visit destination for any admirer of religious and historical architecture.
Getting There: The Durango Cathedral is located in the center of the city. The nearest airport to the cathedral is General Guadalupe Victoria International Airport (DGO), which is located approximately 40 miles away from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the cathedral.
Things to Do:
• Explore the Church: From the moment you step foot into the church, you will be in awe of its sheer beauty and grandeur. Admire the intricately carved stone sculptures, stained glass windows, altars, and other decorations created centuries ago.
• Climb the Bell Tower: Climb the steps of the “el campanario,” or bell tower, to get a stunning view of the entire city. Access to the bell tower is granted through tours conducted by the church staff.
• Learn about its History: Learn the history about the church and the famous people and events associated with it. Look for some of the local legends associated with the Durango Cathedral – such as the legend of the ghost of a nun who can be seen wandering the aisles of the church at night!
• Buy Souvenirs: The church has a gift shop, where you can buy souvenir items (such as postcards, statues, and so on).
• Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Durango is famous for its tasty traditional Mexican foods and drinks, such as tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and of course, margaritas! Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants around the Durango Cathedral – or explore the city’s unique food culture by yourself.
Admission: Access to the Durango Cathedral is free. However, access to the bell tower requires a small fee.
Tips:
• Prepare to bring extra layers of clothing during winter months as the city can get quite chilly.
• Make sure to respect the sacredness of the cathedral by dressing appropriately and being quiet when inside.
• Tour guides are available to show you around the church and explain its history in greater detail.
• Be aware of pickpockets and other types of petty crime in the area.
• Visit the nearby Museo del Pueblo de Durango to gain a further appreciation of the city.
Cathedral
Q: When was the Durango Cathedral constructed?
A: The Durango Cathedral was originally constructed in 1737 and underwent multiple restorations since, although its interior is still largely the same as it was originally.
Q: Where is the Durango Cathedral located?
A: The Durango Cathedral is located in Durango, Mexico, in Central Mexico.
Q: What is the main style of the Durango Cathedral?
A: The Durango Cathedral is built in a baroque style.
Q: How many bells does the Durango Cathedral have?
A: The Durango Cathedral has seven bells, each of which are named after past bishops and popes.
Q: What is the official name of the Durango Cathedral?
A: The official name of the Durango Cathedral is Catedral Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Purisima Concepcíon.
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