San Pedro y San Pedro Teposcolula, Mexico

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by both an earthquake and the passage of time.

Although it lies in ruins the Open Chapel is one of the most marvellous examples of 16th c. sacral art in Mexico. With the exception of the centre bays the building is in the purest Renaissance style. In the middle of the double row of arches is a hexagonal chamber, borne by Doric columns which once had a vaulted ceiling. Here, too, can be found the house which, according to Mixtec tradition, was the seat of the "Lords of Teposcolula" and known as "La Casa de la Teposcolula". It was built ca. 1560 and until 1760 served as a centre of power, holding sway over a wide region of the Mixteca Alta.