Church of Nuestra Señora de Dolores

This church honoring Our Lady of Sorrows was built between 1712 and 1778. It was here that priest Miguel Hidalgo rang the church bell proclaiming the start of the fight for Independence on September 16, 1810. Its Churrigueresque front precedes a neoclassical-style altar, created by the builder Zeferino Gutiérrez, holding an image of the church’s patron. Take a close look at the side altarpieces—the one in gold leaf pays tribute to the Virgin of Guadalupe, and the carved wood one is dedicated to Saint Joseph.

Every year in front of this spot, Hidalgo’s historic proclamation is commemorated and the heroes of the country’s Independence are remembered. All Mexicans celebrate!