Churches of San Cristóbal
Colonial Spanish Architecture with Maya Tradition
The temples, churches, and cathedrals of San Cristobal de las Casas are fascinating symbols of history, culture, and contemporary lifestyles.
History
San Cristóbal de las Casas was built as the first fortified city in what is now Mexico by the Spanish conquistadors to help fight off the local Maya and mestizo uprisings in the jungle highlands in the southern state of Chiapas.
Because of this, most of the churches are built on hills in the center of the city near the zócalo.
Modern Use
When visiting, you will see rites and rituals that combine Catholic practices with traditional Maya beliefs making for a truly unique religious experience. The Maya influence is not as strong in places such as nearby Chamula or in Maya communities in Guatemala. Nevertheless, it is worth taking the time to visit each of these churches.
Catedral de Santo Domingo
Location: Three blocks north of the zocalo
Built: 1547-1560
The largest and one of the most impressive of the churches in San Cristobal, this Cathedral features a pink Baroque façade with icons of Spanish imperialism, for example, the double-headed Hapsberg eagle.
Surrounding the Cathedral is an artisan market where Maya and hippie vendors sell everything from jewelry to leather goods to weavings to amber. Caution buying amber on the street! If it does not feel cool to the touch and have a slightly piney scent when rubbed, it is plastic.
Templo del Carmen
Location: Southern end of the andador, or pedestrian walkway, about three block south of the Zocalo
Built: 1680
A beautiful white structure that served as a gateway to the city when it way first built, it has been converted into a cultural center.
The center often features the artwork of local artists and musicians usually in the early evening between 7 and 9.
Iglesia de San Cristobal
Location: Five blocks southwest of the zocalo easily visible perched on top of a small hill
This small church is perched high above the city is in honor of the patron saint of the city. A long flight of stone steps leads to the top rewarding climbers with a beautiful view of the city.
Templo de Guadalupe
Location: Seven blocks east of the zocalo
Also built on top of a hill, a clime up to this church will provide a view of the city, but from the opposite side. When first arriving in San Cristobal, you may want to visit both the Templo de Guadalupe and Iglesia de San Cristobal to orient yourself with the layout of the city and the mix of traditional Maya and modern Mexican life.
There are dozens of other churches in the city. As you take your own church tour of the city –you could pay for one, but it really is not necessary and many are pretty boring– keep your eye open for signs explaining the architecture and history of the many churches and historical sights.
See Also:
Maya Communities Near San Cristóbal
