Admire the mosaic work of art on the sloping lawn in front of this hilltop temple and enjoy views of Metepec’s historic town centre.
Standing at the top of a flight of steps and overlooking the scenic Municipal Park, the Church of Calvary is one of the most iconic landmarks in Metepec. The 18th-century structure is recognizable by its neoclassical redbrick façade and elegant white touches. Clamber up the zigzagging slope to reach this intriguing church.
Stand with your back to the entrance and enjoy the view of the picturesque Municipal Park. Capture photos of the hilly woodland and see the wall containing the city’s colorful emblem of the Tree of Life. From this vantage point, you can see most of the historic center of Metepec.
Gaze up at the intricate redbrick frontage of the church and spot the red twin towers and the domes that adorn the roof. The back of the church is flanked by woodland hills. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you stroll through the pleasant gardens near the slope that leads to the chapel.
Enter this sanctuary, which is dedicated to the Virgin of Sorrows, to take a look around. The nave is fairly small and intimate, with regal décor, altarpieces and impressive oil paintings.
Note that many legends and myths are woven around the chapel, such as the story suggesting that it served as a hiding spot for the bandits of the Sierra Fría. Visit the temple in the Christmas season to see its external stairs transformed into a Nativity scene.
Wander through the pleasant Municipal Park with your family and bring food for a picnic, with the church as an enchanting backdrop.
The Church of Calvary is the nucleus around which Metepec grows, in the southeastern outskirts of Toluca. It stands on a hill at the northern end of the Municipal Park. Make sure to see nearby sights, such as the Kiosco statue, the Municipal Palace of Metepec and the Church of San Juan Bautista.
