Mazatlán's Cathedral Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepción

Once you have traveled, the voyage never ends,

But is played out over and over again in the quietest chambers.

The mind can never break off from the journey.

Pat Conroy 

Cathedral Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepción

The Cathedral Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepción is the world’s only Roman Catholic Church with the Star of David displayed in each of its 28 stained glass windows. It was said that during the construction of the church a Jewish family in Mazatlán donated a huge sum for the construction and the grateful people included the Star of David to show their gratitude.

Star of David stainglass

Construction began in the mid 1800’s, was interrupted, started again in 1875, and was completed in 1899. It was consecrated as a Basilica in 1937 in honor of the Virgin Mary. It is considered to be the most beautiful in northwest Mexico.

Unlike most churches in Mexico this Cathedral with its splendid combination of neo-Gothic, neo-Classical and Moorish architecture shows little sign of Spanish influence. Inside, the cathedral is furnished with an astonishing lush collection of Baroque altars, gold leaf decorated murals, crystal chandeliers (from France installed in 1950), religious sculptures, and an organ specially built in Paris in 1886 by Aristide Cavaille-Coll, considered the best European builder of the 19th century (organ is believed to have been first played in 1899).

Outside - protector saints

Outside, large white sculptures of St. Matthew, St. Mark, St. Luke, and St. John stand at each of the four corner entrances. High over the apostles, the cathedral’s twin towers and their outer cupola are covered by yellow shiny tiles of European manufacture. Although beautiful during the day, the cathedral is absolutely stunning by night, when its yellow facade is accented with spotlights and the crosses that adorn the top of its towers are lit up in neon.

Night view, www.holeinthedonut.com - Barbara Weibel

Inside - www.sumazatlan.com

Inside - www.holeinthedonut.com - Barbara Weibel

To view a short video showing the inside of the Basilica, please go to: http://youtu.be/5k7wLNaDB_U