The Church of Santa Maria (Parroquia Santa María de la Asunción) is the principal church of the city of Tequisquiapan. Find it overlooking Plaza Miguel Hidalgo, an attractive public square bordered by ornamental gardens, shops and cafés. The Church of Santa Maria dates back to the 18th century and was built over several stages. It takes its name from Santa María de la Asunción y de las Aguas Calientes, the original name of Tequisquiapan.
The church features a neoclassical design with colourful, artistic aspects. Greek-style columns flank the main entrance. Above this are more columns, which support a grand pediment. A clock tower surrounded by small columns crowns the building. To the left of the entrance is a multitier belfry. Gaze toward the rear at a pink-domed cupola, the church’s highest point.
Step inside to find a long nave, with a checkerboard floor, that leads to the main altar. Note how natural light illuminates the interior via the cupola. Paintings of saints and scenes from the Bible adorn the walls while figurines stand in niches.
Visit the church any day. It is an active place of worship so remain quiet and be discreet when taking photographs. An interesting time to come here is during the Easter celebrations. Watch re-enactments of biblical events such as the Way of the Cross. In August the church honours the Assumption of Mary, when the Virgin Mary ascended to heaven.
The Church of Santa Maria stands on the northern side of Plaza Miguel Hidalgo, in the heart of Tequisquiapan’s city centre. Combine your visit with some time relaxing at the square, where friends meet to chat and children play games. Sit on a bench, appreciate the decorative gardens, watch local residents interacting and see tourists pass by on a toy train. Admire the small gazebo and wander through the square’s surrounding arcades, which house a collection of souvenir shops as well as drinking and dining options.
