San José de Toluca Cathedral is a spectacular 19th-century church in the city centre. The cathedral, which is among the city highlights, has an impressive neoclassical façade and a vast and ornate nave. Appreciate the blend of wood, gold and stained-glass windows that combine to form a majestic interior.
Stand in the spacious plaza in front of the cathedral and admire the intricate details of its neoclassical façade. It contains the images of ecclesiastical figures of St. Peter, St. John, St. James and St. Thomas. Admire the relief that portrays the Ascension of Jesus.
Gaze up at the clock and see above it the three female characters depicting faith, charity and hope. The church is flanked by twin domed towers, with a large pediment in the centre, beneath the clock. See the church at night, when its many lights give it a golden glow.
Enter the large nave and gaze up at the complex patterns of the high ceiling. Stroll through this peaceful church and inspect the various statues and carvings representing religious themes and figures. Admire the paintings lining the walls and the ceiling.
Attend one of the orchestral and choral concerts that are often held here and appreciate the excellent acoustics, with sounds reverberating around the columns and domes of the cathedral. Among the events put on in the cathedral are political ceremonies and important weddings.
Construction commenced on the building in 1867, although it wasn’t finished until the second half of the 20th century. It stands on the spot of the former Rosario Chapel and the Chapel of San José, which were destroyed to make room for the cathedral.
Find the San José de Toluca Cathedral in the northern part of the historic centre of the city. Travel through the central zone and explore its many intriguing sights. See nearby landmarks, including Plaza Gonzalez Arratia, the Morelos Theatre and the Toluca Sistine Chapel.
