This humble church is a hive of activity during Mass services, when its doors are flung open and it overflows with hordes of devotees.
La Catedral (Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad) is a quaint and lively church that frames Acapulco’s main square. It showcases a well-balanced fusion of Byzantine, Spanish and Moorish architectural designs both inside and out. Built in 1930, La Catedral is dedicated to Our Lady of Solitude and is the seat of Acapulco’s archdiocese. Visit at the time of a religious service to witness the cathedral’s serene aura and a sense of community spirit.
Decorating the cathedral’s façade are three windows. A statue of Jesus stands in the central one, while statues of saints stand in the other two windows. At the base of the façade are two arched windows and an arched doorway. Note the twin towers, built in the Byzantine style and crowned by balls painted in blue and gold. Another interesting feature is the dome, which resembles those commonly found on mosques.
Inside, the church has a circular-shaped nave and a golden tiled floor. Look up at the large dome, painted in blue and festooned with images of angels, cherubs and saints. The main altar has a blue-tiled backdrop and a statue of the crucifixion of Jesus in the foreground. On either side of the altar are niches that also have blue-tiled decorations and sculptures of saints.
Arrive on a Sunday, when locals come in droves to attend Mass. The side doors are opened and worshippers vie peacefully for space on the pavements outside before lining up to receive Communion. On Saturdays it’s often possible to peek at Mexican wedding ceremonies, baptisms and christenings. These events provide a further glimpse into the city’s ecclesiastical life.
The cathedral sits on Plaza Álvarez, Old Acapulco’s central square. Observe the square’s interesting mix of balloon sellers, shoe shiners and street performers. A 10-minute walk to the west is La Quebrada Cliffs. From here local athletes dive into the ocean from extreme heights. Playa Condesa and Playa Icacos, the main beaches of the Golden Zone, are about a 30-minute drive east.
La Catedral is open daily and admission is free.
