Yucatán. Mérida Cathedral: the coat of arms

We wind up our current posts on Yucatan with pages on two colonial  artifacts of special interest. 

Merida cathedral

In an earlier post we discussed the lost main altarpiece of Mérida cathedral. In this post we look at the grand coat of arms emblazoned on the upper cathedral facade.

Although dating from colonial times, the present configuration of this escutcheon shows later changes, notably the presence of the Mexican national symbol of the eagle atop a cactus in the central shield, a modification made following the Mexican Revolution.

   Otherwise it remains as it was, with the date 1599—marking the completion of the building, as well as the original crown and the chain of the Order of the Golden Fleece closely associated with the Spanish monarchy.

Possible reconstruction of original escutcheon with the imperial arms of Phillip lll of Spain. (courtesy Miguel Bretos)

text and graphic © 2020 Richard D Perry

    

For more on the history and art of the Yucatan missions, consult our published guides.