Guadalajara, Mexico’s second most populous city. This city has its unique neoclassical architectural style which is mainly observed in Europe. Plazas, churches, cathedrals, museums are placed in such a way that they can be explored via pathways interlinked with the help of the plazas.
Below is the list of 15 such places Architects must visit in Guadalajara:
1. Instituto Cultural De Cabanas
Initially, the building was designed as an orphanage and to house the elderly. But after being converted to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it now functions as a museum and cultural center.
2. Guadalajara Cathedral
The construction of this cathedral began in 1568. This was rebuilt in 1818, after it was destroyed by the earthquake. At this time, the towers were Neo-Gothic but were later rebuilt in 1848. The interior of the cathedral has Baroque decorations and ornamentations.
3. Expiatory Temple
Italian architect Adamo Boari designed this temple, with stone and stained glass windows. The doors are made in wood, with painting in the interior by Vatican artists and painters.
4. Plaza De Armas
The perfect tourist spot with all the historic and significant buildings of the city. This plaza is full of trees, lawns, fountains, and further divided and connected with smaller and neighboring plazas.
5. Teatro Degollado
Being the finest example of Neoclassical Architecture, this theatre is located in the east of Liberation Plaza. Architect Jacobo Galvez has designed this theatre with 16 Corinthian columns, vaulted ceilings. The theatre also has a painting of a scene from Divine Comedy.
6. Rotonda De Los Jaliscienses Ilustres
Holding one of the most important places in the history of Jalisco is the Rotonda. This is located at the heart of the city making it more significant. The surroundings are developed into a botanical garden, making it more attractive and a significant tourist spot.
7. The Regional Museum Of Guadalajara
One of the greatest cultural and historic attractions of the city, it has multiple courtyards, and decorative interiors. Murals by Jose Guadalupe Zuno are seen in the interiors of the museum. Different historical, military artifacts are preserved and exhibited in the museum.
8. Templo De San Agustín
A 16th-century church with Baroque style is located in Liberation Plaza, south of Teatro Degollado. This was one of the oldest churches, with simple ornamentations. The interiors are Neo-Plateresque-style altars housing the idols of Saint Agustin and his mother Saint Monica.
9. Mercado Libertad
With 2600 stalls, this is one of the largest markets in the city of Mexico. This market was designed and built in 1958 by Architect Alejandro Zohn. Being one of the biggest markets, a variety of stalls selling handicrafts, jewelry, candies, food items, traditional clothes, shoes, household items, etc., are available.
10. Liberation Square
The statue of Miguel Hidalgo is the center of attention in the plaza with two fountains in the center. The main purpose of the statue was to depict the breaking of chains, as 1810 was known for abolishing slavery in Mexico.
11. Palacio De Gobierno
This place is also known as a government palace, housing the governors and offices. In the 18th century, this building was rebuilt replacing the existing adobe walls of 1643. Since 1858, the palace is being used by the Mexican Federal Government for the President and his cabinet. The entire palace is full of murals by Jose Clemente Orozco.
12. Lake Chapala And Ajijic
This lake is situated in a 9000-feet deep valley, residing in the middle of the Sierra Madre Mountains. Once upon a time, this lake was one of the main water sources for the people of Guadalajara. After becoming a well-known tourist destination, the town’s population consists mainly of artists, writers, and expats from across the world.
13. Panteon De Belen
Also known as Santa Paula Cemetery, this is a burial ground for people suffering from epidemics like cholera. An evident difference is seen in the graves of the wealthy and commoners. A lot of myths and ghost stories are made up about this site. The difference is evident because the graves of the commoners are converted into a hospital.
14. Plaza Tapatia
This plaza is full of fountains and sculptures, that extend up for seven blocks, with a tourism office. The main element of the plaza is a bronze sculpture by Victor Manuel Contreras. This sculpture is known as La Inmolación de Quetzalcoatl. The tallest piece in the center is 25 meters in height.
15. Templo San Juan De Dios
This temple is within walking distance from the market, located near Javier Minar and Independencia. After being rebuilt in 1726-1750, the Baroque architectural style was used, with sculptures of Virgins of sorrows, Saint Anthony and Saint John. Neoclassical style altars are designed with Saint John of God in white marble.
