Templo San Miguel de Mezquitan (Parish Church of Saint Michael of Mezquitán), Guadalajara

The Parish Church of Saint Michael of Mezquitán is a hidden colonial treasure that dates back to the mid-17th century. Construction began in 1645, and the church was finally completed in 1733, as evidenced by the date inscribed on its large atrium cross. As one of the city's oldest religious monuments, it stands on land that once was an indigenous settlement, giving visitors a tangible link to Guadalajara’s pre-colonial and colonial roots.

Tourists are struck by the church’s cantera stone façade adorned with Doric columns, a grand semi-circular entrance, decorative vegetal reliefs, angel faces, and a choir window framed by ornate floral motifs. Inside, a spacious interior unfolds with three naves separated by elegantly molded stone arches. Look up to spot beautifully carved keystones-each traced with floral designs and cherubic angels.

A large cantera cross bearing the inscription “1648” marks the site where local indigenous and early settlers once gathered. The open courtyard-once used for outdoor ceremonies-demonstrates an early breakout of Catholicism into indigenous populations who favored open-air worship, and today remains a gathering space for both religious celebrations and neighborhood life.