Mexico City - Sagrario Metropolitano

This parish church, quite independent of the Cathedral, adjoins it on the east. Built to the design of Lorenzo Rodriguez and conscecrated in 1768, the Sagrario Metropolitano is one of the finest examples of Mexican Churrigueresque.

On the façade geometric ornamentation predominates in the form of the pilasters known as estípites. The harmonious transition from the high central part of the façade to the lower side elements is contrived with consummate skill.

A particularly notable feature of the interior is the high altar (1829) by Pedro Patiño Ixtolinque, an Indian pupil of Manuel Tolsá who is also credited with the altar in the chapel of the Virgen Dolorosa. Part of the interior was destroyed by fire and earthquake in the 18th c. Here, as in many other buildings in Mexico City, the foundations are sinking on one side as a result of the settlement of the subsoil of the drained lake.

On the east side of the Sagrario various craftsmen tender their services, with their tools spread out before them - like the musicians on the Plaza Garibaldi.