Puerto Vallarta, Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Chances are, if you’ve seen a postcard of Puerto Vallarta, you’ve seen the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe (also known as the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Guadalupe Church).  Having taken nearly a century to complete, this church combines many architectural styles to create a beautiful place of worship.

Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Back in 1903, in Puerto Vallarta, the construction of what would, one day, become Guadalupe Church began.  The foundations for a small church were in place but, after several years, it was decided that a much larger church should be built so the foundations were strengthened and construction continued.  A few years after that, it was again decided that the church needed to be bigger and more grand.

Work continued on the church until the mid 1920’s when tensions between church and state lead to the Cristero War, halting construction until 1930.  Though worshippers were allowed in and the chancel was being used in the 40’s the entire building, including the towers were not completed until 1987.

Today, the church is under the watchful eye of Father Esteban Salazar who is the eighth parish priest to act as supervisor over the church.  Placed in the center of the town, the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a busy spot with continuous activity inside the church walls and out.  The area becomes a regular party spot in December during the Feast of Guadalupe, a twelve day celebration where thousands gather to pay tribute to Our Lady.

If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta, make sure to take the time to see the church first hand, you won’t regret it.  To guarantee yourself a wonderful vacation, check out www.vallartalaestancia.com and explore the luxury accommodations provided there