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Modernity and tradition harmonically linked
throughout meadows and squares, glass and earth,
steel and wood; forming a perfect connection at the
entrance of the Coyoacán neighbourhood.
The San José El Altillo Parish is located on the
lands of the old 'El Altillo' Hacienda, a few steps
away from the Temple of Panzacola, on Universidad
avenue. The main house of the Hacienda still exists
and is part of a monastery; its grounds are
constantly being used to host special events. In
contrast with the solidity of this building stands
the modern chapel designed by architect Enrique de
la Mora in colaboration with Félix Candela. The
chapel, one of the most outstanding works of mexican
religious architecture of the 20th
Century, consists of a hyperbolic paraboloid which
extends over a large grass-covered esplanade. The
interior space of the chapel is practically
dematerialized with only stained glass to create an
atmosphere of great spirituality and mysticism,
which is enhanced by the furniture's simplicity. In
front of the chapel there's a large white wall
engraved with quotes from the Bible.
Apart from the aforementioned spaces, this spiritual
centre also has a library and various rooms for
complementary religious activities.
After visiting Coyoacán, you might find that a visit
to this chapel is an excellent complement to the
tour, after which one can also visit the
neighbouring Panzacola Chapel and then follow
Francisco Sosa street to get to the Conchita Chapel.
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