Valvanera Cathedral, Mexico City facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Valvanera Cathedral, Mexico City |
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|---|---|
| Country | Mexico |
| Denomination | Roman Catholic |
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Valvanera is a special church in Mexico City. It is also known as the Maronite Cathedral of Our Lady of Valvanera. You can find it in the historic center, near the main plaza called the Zocalo.
This church has a long history. It started as part of the Convent of Santo Niño Perdido in 1573. Later, in the 1600s, it became a Conceptionist convent. The church and convent were rebuilt in 1667, and that's when it got its current name.
Contents
A Look at Its History
Changes Over Time
In 1861, there were new laws in Mexico called the Reform Laws. Because of these laws, the nuns had to leave the convent. Parts of the convent, like the cloister and other buildings, were taken down.
The main altar inside the church was almost ruined during political fights in the 1800s. However, a very important painting, an oil of the Black Virgin of Valvanera, was saved. This painting is still there today.
A Protected Building
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Valvanera was officially named a historic monument on August 30, 1932. This means it is a very important building that needs to be protected.
Today, this church is the main church, or cathedral, for the Maronite Catholic Eparchy of Our Lady of the Martyrs of Lebanon in Mexico. Maronites are a type of Catholic Christian group.
Architecture and Design
Building Style
The church is built in the Baroque style. This style is known for being very detailed and grand. Its main entrance is on the side of the church, which was common for convents in Mexico back then.
Unique Features
The bell tower of the church is covered with special tiles from Puebla. Only this church and the church of La Encarnación have Puebla tiles on their bell towers, making it quite unique!
The front of the church, called the facade, is made of a red volcanic stone called tezontle. It has five strong supports called buttresses. At the top, there's a decorative band with symbols of Jesus and Mary. Both entrances have two levels of beautiful decorations.
Inside the Church
Inside, the main altar is made of stone and is in the Neoclassical style. The important oil painting of Nuestra Señora de Balvanera is from the 1600s. This painting and some sculptures were given to the church by a Maronite church. In the sacristy, which is a room where priests prepare, you can see paintings by Carlos Clemente Lopez from 1750.
See also
In Spanish: Catedral de Nuestra Señora de Balvanera para niños
- List of colonial churches in Mexico City
