How long does it take to walk the Great Churches Route?

The walk takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. This includes time to admire the facades and step inside the churches for a few minutes each.

Is it worth visiting the churches in Oaxaca?

Yes, they are architectural masterpieces. The use of local green cantera stone and the intricate Oaxacan Baroque carvings make these buildings unique in all of Mexico.

Can I enter the churches for free?

Yes, entrance to these churches is generally free. However, visitors should be respectful of ongoing mass and dress appropriately for a religious site.

What is the best time of day to start this walking route?

Morning is best, ideally starting around 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM. This allows you to finish before the heat of the afternoon and ensures the churches are open before their mid-day break.

Is the Oaxaca church route accessible for strollers?

It is manageable but can be difficult. The cobblestone streets are uneven and sidewalks can be narrow, so a sturdy stroller or carrier is recommended.

Where is the best place to end the walk?

Ending at the Basílica de la Soledad is ideal. It is one of the city's most impressive landmarks and is located right next to the famous Plaza de la Soledad, known for its traditional ice cream.

Are there many hills on this walking tour Oaxaca route?

No, this route is mostly flat or gently downhill. Starting at Carmen Alto and moving toward the Soledad follows a slight natural decline in the city's geography.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Oaxaca’s skyline is defined not by skyscrapers, but by the resilient domes and ornate bell towers of its colonial past. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the 'Sacred Stones' of the Centro Histórico, a journey through the evolution of Oaxacan Baroque architecture and religious history. As you move through the streets, you will notice the distinctive 'cantera verde'—the pale green volcanic stone that gives the city its nickname, the Green City. This walking route takes you beyond the famous Zócalo to uncover the stories etched into the facades of the city's most significant temples and parishes. Starting at the elevated grounds of Carmen Alto, the route descends through the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site. You will encounter the site where the reformist president Benito Juárez was married and see the architectural ingenuity required to build structures capable of surviving the region's frequent earthquakes. Unlike a standard guided tour Oaxaca visitors might find elsewhere, this audio walk allows you to linger under the intricate stone carvings and step into quiet courtyards at your own pace. The journey concludes at the majestic Basílica de la Soledad, a masterpiece of 17th-century craftsmanship dedicated to the patron saint of the city. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, this walking route Oaxaca offers a deep dive into the spiritual and artistic soul of the region. You will see how European styles were adapted by indigenous hands, resulting in a unique aesthetic that is both grand and grounded. From the Jesuit influence to the Augustinian legacy, each stop reveals a different layer of the city's complex heritage, making it a must-do neighborhood stroll for any first-time visitor or returning explorer.

Highlights

The distinctive green 'cantera' stone architecture of Carmen Alto

The ornate Baroque facade of San Felipe Neri

Earthquake-resistant Jesuit architecture at La Compañía

The massive, screen-like facade of the Basílica de la Soledad

Historical sites where key figures like Benito Juárez once walked

Intricate 17th and 18th-century stone carvings and religious art

Tour Stops (6)

Templo del Carmen Alto

Begin your self-guided adventure at the Templo del Carmen Alto. This site has been a place of worship for centuries; long before the Spanish arrived, it was a Zapotec temple dedicated to Centeótl, the goddess of corn. In the 16th century, the Carmelite Order established this monastery using the very stones of the ancient temple. Notice the heavy, fortress-like walls and the pale green hue of the 'cantera' stone. This church is the traditional starting point for the city's famous Guelaguetza festivities, bridging the gap between Oaxaca’s pre-Hispanic roots and its colonial history.

Templo de San Felipe Neri

Walking south, you reach the Templo de San Felipe Neri. Completed in 1773, this church is a prime example of the Oaxacan Baroque style. The facade is exceptionally detailed, featuring figures of saints nestled in niches and intricate floral patterns carved into the pinkish-tan stone. Historically, this church is famous as the site where Benito Juárez—the only indigenous president of Mexico—married Margarita Maza in 1843. Step inside to see the gilded altarpieces, which are among the most beautiful and well-preserved in the city, reflecting the immense wealth of the colonial church.

Templo de la Compañía de Jesús

Located just off the Zócalo, the Templo de la Compañía de Jesús was built by the Jesuits in the late 16th century. Because Oaxaca is prone to earthquakes, the Jesuits designed this building with exceptionally thick walls and low vaults. Look up at the facade to see the image of Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the order. The interior is simpler than some of its neighbors, but it offers a sense of peace and monumental scale that was intended to impress the local population during the era of evangelization.

Templo de San Agustín

The Templo de San Agustín is recognizable by its stunning relief carving of Saint Augustine over the main entrance. Founded by the Augustinian friars in the late 1500s, the current structure dates mostly to the 1720s after previous versions were destroyed by tremors. The facade is a masterclass in stone storytelling, depicting the saint protecting members of his order under his cloak. This church was once part of a large convent that served as a center for learning and religious administration in the southern reaches of the colonial city.

Parroquia de los Siete Príncipes

A short walk toward the southeastern edge of the historic center brings you to the Parroquia de los Siete Príncipes. This 18th-century church is dedicated to the Seven Archangels (or 'Princes'). It is often quieter than the central temples, offering a glimpse into local neighborhood life. The facade is distinctive for its use of red and green stone, creating a subtle polychrome effect. The church was part of a convent for the 'Conceptionist' nuns and remains a beloved local landmark, known for its tranquil plaza and traditional atmosphere.

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Conclude your walking route at the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad. This is the spiritual heart of Oaxaca. Built between 1682 and 1690, the church features a unique 'folding screen' facade that leans forward slightly—a clever architectural trick to ensure the sculptures remain visible from the plaza below. The basilica houses the image of the Virgin of Solitude, the patroness of the city. Legend says the image appeared miraculously in the pack of a mule that died on this spot. Don't miss the chance to try the famous 'leche quemada' (burnt milk) ice cream in the plaza outside after you finish your walk.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through the Centro Histórico is the best way to see the city's history. This route focuses on the major 16th-18th century churches, covering roughly 2 kilometers of historic streets.