Catedral Metropolitana de Xalapa, joya arquitectónica de Veracruz

The Metropolitan Cathedral, dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, is the seat of the Archdiocese of Xalapa and one of the oldest buildings in the city. Construction began in 1641, using wood, but collapsed. To make it even more Veracruz-like, it was built with stones brought from various parts of the state. Modifications to the building continued until the 18th century. The consecration of the temple as a cathedral took place in 1864, with the creation of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Xalapa. The right tower houses the bell tower, which calls for religious services with its ringing. The main bell is the largest in the state. Its emblematic English clock, more than 50 meters high, chimes the time and scatters minutes and seconds over the rooftops of Xalapa. "The cathedral with the truncated tower," as it is colloquially known, is watched over by its sentinel gargoyles, who did not see the completion of the construction on the west side. According to popular belief, the tunnels beneath the basilica would not support the weight of the new building. Inside, Catholics find images of their faith in a splendidly decorated temple. Its oratories are frequented by believers and the shelter of the first cross, crafted from the remains of a ship belonging to the Spanish conquistadors. And, as modernity also extends to the religious sphere, the Eucharistic celebrations can now be followed via closed-circuit television. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Xalapa is a symbol of architectural beauty, spiritual peace... and a Jewel of Veracruz.