Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad (Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude), Oaxaca
The Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude (Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad) is a significant Roman Catholic sanctuary located in the beautiful city of Oaxaca. Constructed between 1682 and 1690, this magnificent church stands as a tribute to Our Lady of Solitude, the patron saint of Oaxaca.
The construction of the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude commenced in 1682 under the guidance of Father Fernando Méndez. Bishop Sariñana y Cuenca consecrated the edifice in 1690, marking its completion. Subsequently, between 1717 and 1718, with the assistance of Bishop Angel Maldonado, the current facade was added to enhance the splendor of the church.
Designed in the shape of a Latin cross, the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude showcases the elegance of Baroque architecture. To ensure its durability in earthquake-prone regions, the builders intentionally opted for low spires and towers. The structure's utilization of green Cantera stone, a material commonly found in Oaxaca, adds to its distinct appearance and complements the surrounding landscape.
Inside the basilica, visitors are captivated by the grandeur of the west gallery, which houses a remarkable baroque pipe organ dating back to 1686. After restoration work in 2000, the organ regained its ability to produce beautiful melodies, enhancing the spiritual experience for all who visit.
With its exquisite Baroque architecture and careful consideration of seismic resistance, the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad has become a notable landmark within the Historic Center of Oaxaca City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
The construction of the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude commenced in 1682 under the guidance of Father Fernando Méndez. Bishop Sariñana y Cuenca consecrated the edifice in 1690, marking its completion. Subsequently, between 1717 and 1718, with the assistance of Bishop Angel Maldonado, the current facade was added to enhance the splendor of the church.
Designed in the shape of a Latin cross, the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude showcases the elegance of Baroque architecture. To ensure its durability in earthquake-prone regions, the builders intentionally opted for low spires and towers. The structure's utilization of green Cantera stone, a material commonly found in Oaxaca, adds to its distinct appearance and complements the surrounding landscape.
Inside the basilica, visitors are captivated by the grandeur of the west gallery, which houses a remarkable baroque pipe organ dating back to 1686. After restoration work in 2000, the organ regained its ability to produce beautiful melodies, enhancing the spiritual experience for all who visit.
With its exquisite Baroque architecture and careful consideration of seismic resistance, the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad has become a notable landmark within the Historic Center of Oaxaca City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
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Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad (Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude) on Map
Sight Name: Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad (Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude)
Sight Location: Oaxaca, Mexico (See walking tours in Oaxaca)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Oaxaca, Mexico (See walking tours in Oaxaca)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Oaxaca, Mexico
Create Your Own Walk in Oaxaca
Creating your own self-guided walk in Oaxaca is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Oaxaca Introduction Walking Tour
Oaxaca City, or Oaxaca de Juárez, is the capital of the eponymous Mexican state in the southern part of the country. Oaxaca is often lauded for its cultural richness – a place where the colors of Mexico mix in an attractive palette of both Indian and Spanish elements.
The region had been inhabited by numerous indigenous groups, primarily the Zapotecs and Mixtecs, for thousands of years... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
The region had been inhabited by numerous indigenous groups, primarily the Zapotecs and Mixtecs, for thousands of years... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
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