The cathedral is built partially from repurposed volcanic rock and stones salvaged from the demolished Aztec Templo Mayor.
The weight of the massive structure has caused it to sink unevenly into the soft lakebed soil, leading to visible cracks and floor tilting.
It houses two of the largest 18th-century organs in the Americas, which were recently restored.
The interior contains the tomb of Agustín de Iturbide, who briefly reigned as the Emperor of Mexico.
The cathedral's foundation utilizes a 'fossilized' wooden grid system designed to float on the city's subsoil.
The central dome features murals painted by Rafael Jimeno y Planes.
During the colonial era, the cathedral served as the center of the Inquisition in New Spain.
The facade includes a unique 'Relief of the Assumption of the Virgin' carved in stone.
Engineering teams installed a massive network of concrete columns deep underground in the 1990s to prevent further structural failure.
The cathedral contains over 50 bells, some of which date back to the 16th century.
The Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral is the oldest and largest cathedral in Latin America, serving as the seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Mexico. Construction spanned three centuries, from 1573 to 1813, resulting in a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles. The building rests on a foundation made of wooden pilings driven into the soft, marshy soil of the former Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. It is situated directly atop the ruins of the Templo Mayor, the most important religious center of the Aztec empire. The cathedral features two massive bell towers and contains 16 chapels within its interior. Visitors can view the highly ornate Altar of the Kings, carved from gilded wood, and the Altar of Forgiveness. The structure has suffered significant structural sinking over time, necessitating complex engineering projects to stabilize the soil and foundation. It remains an active religious site holding daily liturgical services.
From the center of the Plaza de la Constitución (Zócalo) for a symmetrical shot of the entire facade.
Look for the pendulum in the side aisles, which indicates the cathedral's ongoing tilt due to soil subsidence.
Visit the rooftop terrace for a close-up perspective of the bell towers and a panoramic view of the Zócalo.
Respect ongoing mass services by remaining quiet and avoiding flash photography in active worship areas.
Avoid taking photos during active religious ceremonies and stay clear of areas restricted by temporary cordons for maintenance.
Modest dress is required; cover shoulders and knees. Remove hats upon entering and maintain silence.
