Towering over Borda Square with its twin belfry, this 18th-century church is one of Mexico’s most exquisite examples of Baroque architecture.
Gaze in awe at the opulence of the perfectly preserved Santa Prisca Cathedral (Parroquia Santa Prisca). Admire the craftsmanship of its elaborate façade and interior decorations, which make it among Mexico’s finest Baroque landmarks. Santa Prisca Cathedral dates back to 1751 and its construction took just 7 years to complete. The silver mining magnate José de la Borda funded the building of the church as a gift to Taxco and in doing so almost exhausted his riches.
The cathedral’s exterior is of the Churrigueresque style, which is characteristic of extravagant Spanish-colonial Baroque architecture. It features a pink-hued façade decorated with handcrafted cherubs, icons, religious symbols and spiral columns. Look for a portrayal of the baptism of Jesus in addition to statues of St. Prisca and St. Sebastian. Rising above the façade are twin bell towers, between which is a statue of the Virgin Mary encircled by cherubs and saints.
Step inside to discover a series of altarpieces with décor that’s inspired by the glorification of martyrdom. Note how barely any wall space is left undecorated. Life-like saint statues are crafted from wood and gold leaf. See the repeated use of bay leaves, shells and grapes, which symbolize the baptism of Christ, triumph of faith and blood of Christ, respectively.
Some of Mexico’s most celebrated artists contributed to the cathedral’s interior. These include Cayetano de Siguenza and Isidoro Vicente de Balbás, among others. View a gallery of paintings by Miguel Cabrera, a revered artist of the viceroyalty of New Spain.
Find the cathedral on the east side of Borda Square, Taxco’s lively central plaza. It’s a short walk from the square’s attractions, including the Silver Museum and Casa Borda Cultural Center. Shared and private taxis leave from Borda Square to the town’s outer suburbs.
Santa Prisca Cathedral is open daily and admission is free. Religious ceremonies, such as baptisms and Masses, often take place here. Be courteous by remaining quiet and respectful of worshippers when visiting.
