Zacatecas. The Cathedral of the Assumption 1

In earlier posts we have looked at various colonial treasures in the state and city of Zacatecas*.
In this and a subsequent post we tackle the preeminent monument in the city: the cathedral of the Assumption.  See our earlier post on the cathedral crucifix.

This unique baroque building boasts three facades of unparalleled ornamental richness, informed by a popular feeling. Begun in 1729, several noted designers and architects contributed to its final appearance. In this first post we look at the west front of the cathedral, a classic example of Mexican horror vacui with no surface left undecorated. 

The fantastical, shield like facade, sculpted in rose colored stone, rises in three tiers, each framed by spiral columns wreathed in vines, shells and angels; pearls fruit and feathers are embedded in the tapestry of relief vegetation that fills the intermediate spaces. 

 Between the columns ornamental niches with sculpted pedestals house figures of Christ and the Apostles—13 in all. 

Above the mixtlinear porch, a rose window also ringed by luxuriant relief opens in the middle tier,

A relief of God the Father stands alone in the surmounting gable niche, accompanied by musical angels almost lost in the mass of surrounding floral relief.

* Pinos; Guadalupe; Santo Domingo; 

text © 2022 Richard D. Perry

photography by the author and Niccolo Brooker