Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion (Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption), Oaxaca (must see)

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption (Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción) serves as the main church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Antequera, Oaxaca.

Initially, the construction began in 1535, and the Temple of San Juan de Dios acted as the temporary cathedral church for the diocese. However, in 1640, the cathedral was established, and the diocesan seat was transferred to Our Lady of the Assumption. Over the years, due to earthquakes in the 16th and 18th centuries, the cathedral had to undergo several reconstructions. The most recent reconstruction started in 1702 and was completed in 1733.

The cathedral's facade is crafted from green Cantera stone, a common material used in the construction of buildings in Oaxaca. Its interior follows a Neoclassical style. Inside, the altar is adorned with a statue of Our Lady of the Assumption (Nuestra Señora de la Asunción) created during the Porfirian era in Italy. This statue represents the Virgin Mary and is accompanied by a bronze sculpture crafted by Italian sculptor Adamo Tadoini and brought from Europe.

Although the original towers of the cathedral no longer stand, having been destroyed in the 1931 Oaxaca earthquake, there are notable features to be found within the structure. The south wing houses a clock gifted to Oaxaca by King Fernando VII. Additionally, the last chapel on the left is home to the Lord of Lightning, while the second chapel on the right preserves the remains of the Cross of Huatulco. Along the western wall of the choir, an intricately designed baroque pipe organ, partially dating back to 1711-1712, and restored in 1997, stands tall.