La Parroquia

La Parroquia, the current parish church of San Miguel is unique in Mexico, and the emblem of the town. It has a neo gothic facade with two tall towers that can be seen from most parts of town. It is one of the most photographed churches in Mexico. The church was built in the 17th century with a traditional Mexican facade. The current Gothic facade was constructed in 1880 by Zeferino Gutierrez, who was an indigenous bricklayer and self taught architect. It is said that Gutierrez's inspiration came from postcards and lithographs of Gothic cathedrals in Europe; however, the interpretation is his own and is more a work of imagination than than a faithful reconstruction