Expiatory Temple to Christ the King

The current Expiatory Temple dedicated to Cristo Rey (Christ the King) is one of the most stunning baroque buildings in Mexico City. It faces south, towards Guadalupe boulevard which for centuries has been the main entrance to the church from the center of the city. 

Its large dome covered in yellow tiles and four octagonal towers at each corner create a striking image. The exterior is magnificently covered with limestone and volcanic rock. 

The interior has been renovated several times. Its original baroque decoration was replaced by a neoclassical style at the beginning of the 19th century that included a main altar by José Agustín Paz and Manuel Tolsá. In 1895, for the Pontifical Coronation of Our Lady of Guadalupe, this altar was removed and an altar of white Carrara marble covered by a canopy with Scottish granite columns and a bronze vault was put in its place. It still stands today. 

Be sure to take a look at the building to the east of the old basilica; it is the Parroquia de Santa María de Guadalupe Capuchinas. Once a Capuchin convent, it was built between 1782 and 1787 to serve the pilgrims who journeyed to the church.