Architecture

Fort of Guadalupe

It was known as the Hill of Bethlehem due to the fact that there was once a chapel dedicated to the Lady of Bethlehem located there. It was not until 1816 when a temple dedicated to the virgin of Guadalupe was destroyed in 1862 during the siege of the city. Only the outer stone walls and moat remain intact. The inside holds only the ruins of some rooms and of the Temple of Guadalupe; this is due to the fact that it was the scene of the 5 de Mayo Battle in 1862.

 Tecali - Former monastery of Santiago Apostol

This monastery is supposed to have been built around 1569 to 1579. Although nowadays the monastery is in ruins, it is a true monument due to its architectural characteristics. Besides, beautiful gardens frame its majestic and mythical remains. It is designed in the shape of a basilica which differs from churches of the XVI century because it is formed by three parallel naves, separated by two rows of thin classicist columns which support six arches on each side. For Don Manuel Toussaint the central façade is “an example of purist Renaissance, perhaps the most remarkable ever in New Spain”. The altarpieces in the former Monastery are at the main church in Tecali. Nowadays Tecali is a peaceful place which is characterized by its onyx and alabaster workshops.