Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento

The Basics

Designed by Adam Boari, the architect behind Mexico City’s Fine Arts Museum (Palacio de Bellas Artes), the lopsided Templo Expiatorio is often visited during walking and bike tours of Guadalajara. These shared or private excursions typically feature stops at other key landmarks such as Guadalajara Cathedral, and sometimes include food tastings. You can also combine your visit to the Templo Expiatorio with a stop at the nearby University of Guadalajara Art Museum (MUSA).

Things to Know Before You Go

• Time your visit to the Templo Expiatorio with the striking of the hour when the German clock comes to life.

• Mass is held regularly at the Templo Expiatorio, so dress modestly if you plan on attending.

• Take care in and around Parque Expiatorio after dark—take a taxi or rideshare back to your accommodation.

• Templo Expiatorio is free to enter but may not be fully wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The Templo Expiatorio is situated on the north side of Parque Expiatorio, just a 20-minute walk from both Chapultepec Avenue and the historic center and is easily accessible on foot. The closest light rail station is Juárez, located four blocks away, and there’s also a public parking lot beneath the Templo Expiatorio.

When to Get There

Templo Expiatorio is open daily from the early morning to late evening, although the best time to visit is when the sun streams through the vast stained-glass windows behind the altar. Sundays typically see the most activity in the plaza outside, so stop by and admire the Templo Expiatorio’s exterior while sampling some street food.

What to Do Nearby

There’s plenty to do in and around the Templo Expiatorio. Art lovers should take the opportunity to stop at the University of Guadalajara Art Museum (MUSA), which is situated one block north and is best known for its striking José Clemente Orozco murals. Meanwhile, coffee lovers will want to head southwest to the cute cafés of the popular Americana neighborhood.