Culture & History: Most Beautiful Churches in Jalisco

Did you know that the Catholic Church history in Mexico dates back to the 1500’s. Since 1519 it has been the main religious institution in Mexico. The Spanish conquistadors invaded Mexico in the early 1500’s, and they are the ones who introduced Catholicism to this country. In fact, the Catholic religion is considered to be one of the biggest legacies from the Spanish era. Until the 19^th century , it was the only church that had permission to operate in Mexico. Centuries later when Mexico gained its independence from Spain in 1821, the Catholic Church started becoming active in politics as well. In the state of Jalisco in Mexico, there are several Pueblo Magico or Magic Towns which are charming towns that have some of the most beautiful churches in Mexico. Keep reading below to learn more about the most beautiful churches in Jalisco.

Tapalpa

For starters, Tapalpa is located approximately two hours from Guadalajara which is the capital of the state of Jalisco. There, the town became a Pueblo Magico in 2002. Tapalpa has an elevation of approximately 6700 feet, which means this town has cooler weather almost throughout the year. The Temple of San Antonio Church was built by the Franciscans in 1650, but damages to the building occurred. Centuries later, the Lady of Guadalupe Church started being built in 1950 and is today the town’s main church and a beautiful place to visit.

San Sebastián del Oeste

Next, San Sebastian del Oeste is located approximately 50 miles from Puerto Vallarta which makes it easy to visit for a day if you’re on a Puerto Vallarta vacation. San Sebastian del Oeste was honored to be named a Magical Town in 2011. Today, this charming village is very peaceful and only has around 5000 residents. The central church is the Saint Sebastian Church which is near the main plaza. The church was built towards the end of the XVIII century by the Franciscan friars. Make sure to visit the beautiful church during your vacation to Mexico.

Tequila

Thirdly, Tequila is the most famous spirit in Mexico, and the town with the same name is located approximately three hours from Puerto Vallarta. Tequila was honored to be a Magical Town in 2003. When you visit Tequila, make sure you visit the mirador viewpoint. You will go into a valley where you will see charming colonial houses and blue agave plant fields, which are used to make tequila. The main church is the Saint James Church. It is a 17^th century church with stunning sculptures. While you are exploring Tequila make sure you also book a tequila tasting tour, too.

Mazamitla

Next, Mazamitla is not as well known as some of the other Magical Towns in Jalisco, but it’s no less charming. Mazamitla is located approximately 124 km from Guadalajara. Mazamitla was honored to be a Magical Town in 2005. This town is a charming resort town, and it is a popular vacation spot for residents from Guadalajara that want a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city. There, the Saint Christopher Church was constructed in the mid-1900’s. It has beautiful stained-glass windows, interior columns, and more.

Mascota
Lastly, the charming small town of Mascota was honored to be designated a Magical Town in 2015. The main church is Nuestra Señora de los Dolores or Our Lady of Sorrows Church. The church was constructed in the 18^th century, and it is still one of the most beautiful buildings in Mascota. Mascota is a charming town with cobblestone streets and the central plaza is beautiful. There are also lovely hiking and mountain biking trails in the area as well. If you leave early, you can also visit Mascota on a day trip from Puerto Vallarta as it is about a 2 hour drive each way.

Did you enjoy our list of the most beautiful churches in Jalisco? Would you like to see these beautiful churches in person? If so, book your Mexico vacation today! If you need help with travel plans, call Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573. They are a genuine and reputable online travel agency that works with the country’s top resorts. Travelers are never disappointed with the high quality of amenities and spacious accommodations. Right now, they have special all-inclusive travel packages on sale to visit Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco if you’d like to visit some of the state’s most beautiful churches. In addition to Puerto Vallarta, Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 also has travel promotions to visit Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Cabo San Lucas, and the Islands of Loreto. Give them a call today and their friendly travel specialists will handle all the details for you!