Cathedral of MĂ©rida
MĂ©rida
The Cathedral of Mérida, located in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, is one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, completed in 1598. It stands on the site of the ancient Mayan city of T'ho, incorporating stones from the Mayan temple of Yajam Cumu in its construction. The cathedral reflects clear architectural influences from Andalusia, Spain, particularly the vaulting system inspired by Andrés de Vandelvira. It was built as the seat of the bishopric of Yucatán, a diocese established in 1561. The cathedral's facade features statues of St. Peter and St. Paul, symbolizing the Catholic Church's authority and heritage. Over time, the coat of arms on the facade evolved, reflecting Mexico's colonial past and independence, including changes due to anti-Spanish sentiment. The cathedral remains a significant religious and historical monument, blending indigenous and colonial legacies.
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Faits intéressants
- •The cathedral was constructed using stones from the Mayan temple of Yajam Cumu, integrating indigenous materials into colonial architecture.
- •It is the second oldest cathedral in the Americas, after the Cathedral of Santo Domingo.
- •The cathedral's vaulting system was inspired by the work of Andalusian architect Andrés de Vandelvira.
- •The coat of arms on the facade was altered multiple times due to anti-Spanish sentiment after Mexican independence.
- •Statues of St. Peter and St. Paul adorn the facade, each holding symbolic items representing their roles in the Church.
Histoire
Construction of the Cathedral of MĂ©rida began in 1561 and was completed in 1598, making it the second cathedral finished in the Americas after Santo Domingo.
It was built on the site of the ancient Mayan city of T'ho, using stones from Mayan temples.
The bishopric of Yucatán was officially established in 1561, with Fray Francisco Toral as its first bishop.
The cathedral's architectural design was influenced by Andalusian styles, particularly the vaulting techniques of Andrés de Vandelvira.
Post Mexico's independence, the cathedral's coat of arms was altered to reflect changing political sentiments.
Guide du lieu
Main Nave and Vaulting1561-1598
The cathedral's main nave features a distinctive vaulting system based on Andalusian architectural principles introduced by Andrés de Vandelvira, providing both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Facade Statues of St. Peter and St. PaulLate 16th century
The facade is adorned with statues of St. Peter holding the keys to the Church and St. Paul holding a sword and book, symbolizing their significance in Christianity.
Coat of Arms on Facade16th century original; modified in 1824 and later
Originally designed to reflect the Spanish royal coat of arms, it underwent modifications post-independence to include a Mexican eagle and was at one point buried beneath cement due to political sentiments.
Contact
Téléphone: 0274-2521940
