The Most Beautiful Churches In Mexico City Mexico

Mexico City is home to a number of ornate churches, all of which have a story to tell. Gothic architecture, bright tezontle stone and lush green gardens adorn these beautiful structures. Whether it’s for their architecture, interior design or history, these religious and sacred buildings are not to be missed when visiting the capital of Mexico.

Planning a visit? Then book a place on Culture Trip’s five-day Mexico City tour, where you’ll be able to wander the city on a guided tour with one of our local insiders.

1. Catedral Metropolitana de México

Cathedral

The Metropolitan Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Mexico City and the whole of the Americas. It’s on the main Plaza de la Constitución (also referred to as the Zócalo). Construction of the cathedral began in 1573 and was not completed until 1813. With impressive facades, 16 chapels (14 of which are open to the public) and two bell towers containing a total of 25 bells each, as well as beautiful interiors, this cathedral is a sight not to be missed.

2. Basílica de Guadalupe

Cathedral, Library, Museum

Old and modern Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe), Mexico City, Mexico DF, Mexico FCGJM4

The Basílica of Guadalupe, dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe who is said to have appeared to Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, is highly important in Mexico City – it’s the second most visited holy place in the world. There are two basilicas: the old and the modern. The latter was built when the former had sunk so much that it had become a safety hazard, although it is once again open to the public. The modern basilica has beautiful chapels, a museum and a library, and even contains the cloak of Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, which has an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a relic thta attracts millions of tourists and pilgrims every year.

4. Parroquía de San Jacinto

Church

The Church of San Jacinto is a place of peace and calm. With a blue facade and red walls made from volcanic rock, pretty gardens and patios, this church is surrounded by nature and invites visitors to leave the city bustle behind. Prior to the Spanish conquest, the land on which this church stands was inhabited by the Tenanitla. And there is still a feeling of paganism behind the Christian elements of this church, although this is also where you’ll find one of the first crosses made in Mexico.

5. Iglesia de San Juan Bautista

Church

In the heart of Coyoacán is the Church of San Juan Bautista, one of the oldest Catholic places of worship in the area. The importance of this church has never been lost and was even declared a National Monument in 1934. The baroque architecture has a feeling of grandeur and importance, although its colors maintain a positive and spiritual atmosphere. This church has a majestic dome, impressive sacred artwork and three chapels, one of which leads into the former convent – visit to admire the beautiful architecture and find some peace.

6. Iglesia La Profesa

Church

Mexico Mexico City Ciudad de Federal District Distrito DF D.F. CDMX Centro historico historic Center Centre Templo de San Felipe Neri Catholic church 2F5F88X

The Iglesia La Profesa is not only a place of worship frequented by locals and tourists, but it is also an architectural masterpiece. Constructed in 1720 and designed by architect Pedro de Arrieta, who was hugely celebrated in his time, this beautiful church has baroque and neoclassical influences – a symbol of Mexican culture and history. The interior is just as impressive with stunning artwork, created and collected over many years.

7. Parroquía de San Miguel Arcángel

Church

Iglesia San Miguel Arcangel in Mexico City DF CYRPME

Parroquía de San Miguel Arcángel is another church designed by Pedro de Arrieta and, again, is of outstanding architectural beauty. In the Centro Histórico of Mexico City, the church is surrounded by history and marks the entrance to the Mexico City of the 17th century. Its original purpose was to repel demons and evil from entering the city, and although this purpose is no longer relevant, Catholics still come to Mass in this ancient relic of a church.

8. Iglesia de Jesús Nazareno

Church

Iglesia de Jesus Nazareno aka Parroquia de Jesus Nazareno e Inmaculada Concepcion at Historic center of Mexico City CDMX, Mexico

Constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries, the Church of Jesus of Nazareth marks the place where Hernán Cortés and Moctezuma II met for the first time. This beautiful church is no longer in use, although for some time it contained the body of Cortés. Inside is an unfinished but conserved mural by José Clemente Orozco, inspired by the Apocalypse and World War II. Alongside the church is a functioning hospital, which was built under the orders of Cortés who wanted it to cure Aztec soldiers wounded in battle.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.