Gaze in awe at the peach-pink cantera façade of the Santo Domingo Church (Templo de Santo Domingo), which has presided over the plaza of the same name since the 1740s. Built by the Order of the Jesuits from 1746, the church was later taken over by the Dominican Order and transformed into a religious landmark second only to the Zacatecas Cathedral. Explore the church’s magnificent octagonal sacristy and admire lavish artworks and altarpieces dating back over 200 years.
Spend some time exploring Santo Domingo Plaza to appreciate the church’s architectural beauty. The pink stone building features stunning Baroque flourishes throughout its symmetrical façade. Admire the tall bell towers that flank the central doors. Don’t be fooled by the church’s simplistic and subdued façade its interior is nothing short of breathtaking.
Enter the building to experience the richness of its interior decorations. The church’s eight altarpieces are among its most significant features. All eight of the carved-wood reredoses are gilded in radiant gold foil. The main altarpiece is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe. Continue onward to the octagonal-shaped sacristy, where you’ll find eight paintings that date back to the 1700s. Look closely at the paintings to see the different scenes of the Via Crucis (Stations of the Cross), as depicted by the 18th-century painter and gilder Francisco Martinez.
Santo Domingo Church is located on Plaza de Santo-Domingo in Zacatecas’ historic center. The church is open daily however, there is a regular closure during the mid-afternoon siesta. There is no fee to enter the church, although donations are appreciated. Be sure to respect worshippers when exploring the church and time your visit outside of regular the Mass schedule. Alternatively, attend Mass to experience the church as it comes alive with traditional services and song.
While in the area, walk a short distance east to find Zacatecas Cathedral, which is a distinctive landmark in the city’s heritage pink-stone streets. Walking is the best option for getting around Zacatecas’ historic center, although taxis are available for longer distances.
