Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción

Campeche


Dominating Plaza Principal’s east side is the two-towered cathedral. The limestone structure has stood on this spot for more than three centuries and it still fills beyond capacity most Sundays for mass. Statues of Sts Peter and Paul occupy niches in the baroque facade; the sober, single-nave interior is lined with colonial-era paintings. And at night, the gauzy lights on the illuminated church and other central landmarks create a magical atmosphere.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Campeche attractions

1. Plaza Principal

0.05 MILES

Shaded by carob trees and ringed by tiled benches and broad footpaths radiating from a belle-epoque kiosk, Campeche’s appealingly modest central square…

2. Biblioteca de Campeche

0.06 MILES

On the northern (seaward) side of Plaza Principal stands a replica of the old government center, now housing the modern Biblioteca de Campeche. The…

3. Museo El Palacio

0.07 MILES

This large museum at the plaza has exhibits about the city's logwood industry and salt trading; a section is designed to make you feel like you're inside…

4. Centro Cultural Casa Número 6

0.08 MILES

During the prerevolutionary era, when this mansion was occupied by an upper-class campechano family, Número 6 was a prestigious plaza address. Wandering…

5. Mansión Carvajal

0.08 MILES

Once the mansion of wealthy landowner Fernando Carvajal, this beautiful building now houses state offices. Visitors are welcome to take a peek inside,…

6. Museo de la Arquitectura Maya

0.09 MILES

The Baluarte de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, designed to protect the Puerta del Mar, contains the fascinating Museo de la Arquitectura Maya. It provides…

7. Museo del Archivo General de Estado

0.12 MILES

At this small museum, learn how Campeche came to be. It’s free and air-conditioned, and you get to check out old documents and maps, and watch a video (in…

8. Puerta del Mar

0.14 MILES

The Puerta del Mar provided access from the sea, opening on to a wharf where small craft delivered goods from ships anchored further out. The shallow…