It is the Cathedral, the sparkling jewel in the crown of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mexico. This Cathedral rises from the ground that once witnessed the sacred rituals of the Aztec civilization.
Today, this church is a famous symbol of Mexico City - the capital of Mexico, attracting countless tourists from all over the world, including us.
Locals, it was observed, also came here to experience the beauty of this wonderful architecture. Surely, like me, they were amazed by the magnificence of the church.
When the sun rose, the church's surface was revealed, looking so lively, as if it had its own life. Inside, I was silent listening to the sermon in Spanish, even though I couldn't understand it. But no matter! Just admiring the scene inside the church was already a blessing.
The Cathedral, a famous symbol of Mexico City
One of the highlights of the interior of the church is the Altar of the Kings. It is an exquisite work of art, with gold leaf inlays that seem to dance in the flickering candlelight.
This church is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but also has an interesting story. Our volunteer guide – many cities around the world have such people – told us the story of a miracle that happened in the 1950s. At that time, a strong earthquake shook Mexico City. Many houses around the church collapsed, but the church remained standing, becoming a sign of hope and protection for many who took refuge here.
Since that day, the church has been given the name "La Protectora" (The Protector). The local community believes that this church has protected them from disaster.
Another angle of the Cathedral in Mexico City. Photo: Ngoc Tran
Construction of this church - whose full name is the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception - began in 1573. According to historical documents, the church's blueprints were drawn by architect Claudio de Arciniega. He based his drawings on the architecture of Gothic churches in his distant homeland of Spain.
Through the drawing, Claudio de Arciniega seems to have envisioned a palace-like church rising high, with delicate spires that seemed to touch the clouds.
The exterior of the church. Photo: Ngoc Tran
It seems that every stone of this church was placed with such precision and love by local craftsmen. Because of that, for me, this church is alive, like an eternal breath in the heartbeat of a city of 23 million people.
It is not only a religious structure but also a living monument to the blend of culture and faith; thereby creating the identity of Mexico City today.
Inside the church. Photo: Ngoc Tran
Treasures inside the church. Photo: Ngoc Tran
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