Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad (Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude), Oaxaca

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.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Oaxaca. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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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:

Walking Tours in Oaxaca, Mexico

Create Your Own Walk in Oaxaca

Create Your Own Walk in Oaxaca

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Oaxaca Introduction Walking Tour

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

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